The Via Belgica was once a key Roman road that connected the Roman cities of Boulonge-sur-Mer in France and Cologne in Germany. The road was built in the 1st century AD and served as an important route for trade and military movements. Today, the actual road is long gone, but remnants along the former route still remain. The area which the route crossed in the former Roman empire, are now called France, Belgium, The Netherlands and Germany.

With four riders, we tackled our own version of the route between Christmas and New Year. In three cold, dark and wet days, we went for a ride through history with our friends Kenneth, Mark and Casper. 

This yearly #CRAZY500 challenge was a journey that combined the history of the Via Belgica with the epic conditions of cobblestones, rain, and climbs. About 25% of the route was unpaved, so we rode both road bikes with wide tyres and gravel bikes with fast gravel rubber. 

The rain came down relentlessly, turning the unpaved sections of the route into muddy quagmires. But we persevered, pushing ourselves to the limit and refusing to give up. Over the three days, we battled against the elements, tackling challenging terrain and facing countless obstacles along the way - punctures, mechanicals and drained headlight batteries. But through it all, we stuck together as a team, supporting each other and sharing in the triumphs and struggles that came with this demanding ride. 

And it was not just the four riders. Alongside us we had a hard-working crew, documenting the adventure in photo and video. They were always there when we needed them, providing encouragement and support throughout the journey.

Perhaps the most memorable aspect of the journey was the sense of camaraderie that developed among us as a team. We shared stories, jokes, and laughs as we rode through the countryside, creating memories that we will always treasure.

As we crossed the finish line in Köln, Germany, we knew that we had accomplished what we came for - not just as individuals, but as a team. The #CRAZY500 was an epic journey that tested our limits, but it was also a journey that brought us together and created a bond that will last a lifetime.

As a dedicated cyclist and member of Fatpigeon.cc, I love nothing more than taking on new challenges and exploring the world on two wheels. That's why our #CRAZY500 challenge along the historic Via Belgica was such an exciting opportunity for me and my fellow riders Mark, Kenneth, and Casper.