Hi, new to this forum.

Re: TdF 2003. As metioned there is a womens race, however there is also something called the E'tape de Tour. This is an open even, 7500 places are available and you basically ride one mountain stage of the TdF. The event is usually two days before the pro's do the stage, so after you have slogged your way round you can go back and watch the likes of Lance doing it.
My husband and I have entries for this comming summer. It will be 123 miles and two ro three major clims, stage 16 if anyone wants to check out the route.

Hence any advice on training for long distance riding?