The Deminers, the Gravel adventure around the Canigou
The Tour du Canigó is an extraordinary escape. Wild, immense, steeped in ancient tales. Les Démineurs is the event that brings this history to life. On a gravel bike, for 24 hours.
There are events we look forward to without really knowing what to expect… and then there's Les Démineurs . This first edition was much more than just a bike ride: a concentrated burst of energy, camaraderie, and good cheer. And as always, the pleasure of seeing familiar faces, fellow enthusiasts, and a few Velocidade panniers ready to devour the miles! Organized by our friends at Caminade , the first edition of Les Démineurs took place the weekend of October 17th, starting and finishing at La Fábrica in Ille-sur-Têt. Around thirty participants were there for a unique experience, combining personal challenge, the joy of cycling, and shared moments around the table.
A beautiful and luminous human adventure
From Friday onwards, the atmosphere was set: goodwill, laughter, passionate discussions about bikes and final adjustments. Here and there we saw Caminade frames, Neo Wheels , and even some of our bikepacking bags displayed on a small stand — enough to fuel the exchanges between enthusiasts.
Then, at the stroke of midnight, the race begins. Lights come on, wheels squeal, and the peloton sets off into the night like a swarm of fireflies. A magical, almost silent atmosphere, where excitement mingles with the serenity of the moment.
Capturing the atmosphere
I was lucky enough to take out my camera to capture a few moments of that night. The idea wasn't to "cover" the event, but rather to try and capture the atmosphere : those focused gazes, the smiles exchanged before departure, the headlights piercing the mist, then the sunrise over a mountain pass before everyone descended the southern slope. Simple images, but full of emotion.
A few hours later, it was back to La Fábrica to welcome the arrivals. Fatigue was etched on their faces, but so was pride and the joy of having experienced something unique. Some shared their adventures over a good meal, while others enjoyed a hot shower or a short massage. Everyone was beaming—and it was a pleasure to see.
An adventure on a human scale
What makes the Minesweepers so endearing is undoubtedly their team spirit . No timing or podiums, but a genuine moment of sharing. Everyone rides at their own pace, discovers, helps each other, and exchanges ideas. You leave with the feeling of having experienced a sincere, simple, and profoundly human moment.
A big congratulations to the whole Caminade team, to Ride Neo Wheels , and to everyone who took part in this great first edition.
And for our part, we have a bright memory of this adventure — already looking forward to the next one.
Velocidade is the feeling of freedom given by speed, the wind that makes your eyes water, the sound of the air blowing near your ears, a little taste of adrenaline that makes you feel good.
At Velocidade, we believe in cycling as the future of transportation! We've created a range of responsible luggage for bikes and backpacks, designed and handcrafted in our workshop in Mirepoix, Ariège. To learn more about our commitments, click here .
MADE IN FRANCE
We wanted to create our bags with a waterproof and UV-resistant canvas certified Oeko-Tex, made in France.
DESIGN
Products designed to last a long time with an economy of raw materials and which can be repaired, a sustainable design.
REPARABLE
In case of damage, no worries, we'll repair your bag!
COMMITMENT
As a socially responsible brand, we donate 1% of our revenue to contribute to environmental preservation.
RICARDO VIEIRA - FOUNDER/DESIGNER/FASHIONIST
Ricardo has long been thinking about reducing his environmental impact, whether through his cycling and running, or in his daily life, having decided to become a vegetarian over 20 years ago. Curious and passionate, he began creating and making his first objects when his grandfather gave him a sewing machine for his 17th birthday, and since then, he has dedicated himself to creating, repairing, and making things with the same energy and in the same direction: simplicity and local production. Convinced that cycling is the ultimate low-carbon solution for everyday travel, Ricardo decided to create Velocidade and embarked on designing and crafting handmade bags using entirely artisanal methods.
