Quote Originally Posted by Alexandra View Post
I also have the impression that "anglo-saxon" winners are less popular than EU ones.

I am actually franco-phile rather than franco-phobe, so I am very glad to hear that the locals supported the winning Brits. Perhaps fans of mountain running are different from TDF supporters - after all, one doesn't hear of UTMB spectators shouting threatening abuse at participants, which does scarily happen from time to time in the TDF.
I was talking with BGSec last night about this. We were amazed at how everyone gets behind the trailers in each event. From children right through to the elderley, lining the paths and streets of the villages along the course. I only made it to Les Contamines and i got almost emotional at the crowds in St Gervais shouting your name and your country, holding out their hands for you to high five. Amazing experience! And in the weather too, people still made the effort. Totally humbling.
I just couldn't imagine many folk back home doing that. Must be in that in these villages everyone has a strong connection with the mountains and a respect for the sportsmen and women playing out their game here.