BRM400 - Signal d'Ecouves : cote 413 - Edition n°5 - Sens inverse

Embark on an epic journey through the rolling hills of Normandy for this BRM400 qualifier to PBP 2027, set against the backdrop of stunning rural landscapes. Departing from Fleury-les-Aubrais between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM on Saturday, May 1st, riders will traverse through picturesque regions such as Beauce and Perche before reaching Mortagne-en-Vévino, a location reminiscent of the famous Paris-Brest-Paris route. The course continues past historic landmarks like Château d’Ô and Sées Cathedral.
At kilometer 190 in Vrigny-Boischampré, participants will find themselves at the northernmost point of the ride with an overnight halt offering warm refreshments amidst a beautiful setting. This stop also doubles as a historical curiosity spot where tales of kings and cavaliers await discovery. After this restful break, cyclists ascend to the Signal d’Écouves hill (côte 413), known for its challenging climb.
The return leg winds through the Col des Quatre Gardes in Perseigne Massif, Mamers, La Ferté-Bernard, and Châteaudun before heading back towards Fleury-les-Aubrais via lesser-known roads. This year’s route is unique as it follows a reverse direction from previous iterations.
Participants will encounter two control points crucial for PBP qualification: the Château d’Ô in Orne and Montmirail in Sarthe. The ride, organized under Audax Club Parisien guidelines, emphasizes self-sufficiency on open roads while adhering strictly to traffic regulations. Essential nighttime equipment includes fixed lighting systems and reflective gear.
Riders are provided with a control card and detailed route maps at the start line. Five checkpoints must be validated throughout the course for official certification of completion by Sunday evening (by 6:00 PM). A downloadable GPX trace is available on CJF Cyclotourisme et Marche’s website.
On-site amenities include departure and arrival refreshments, baggage storage options within a short distance from start/finish points. Three nearby parking areas are conveniently located for participants. For those arriving during the night shift, a rest room equipped with duvets and sleeping mats is available until Sunday afternoon (by 5:00 PM).
The event’s proximity to rail transport makes it accessible, situated just over one kilometer from Fleury-les-Aubrais railway station.