As Etape course go this one's pretty easy. (only one categorized climb.) With a month to train, some coaching, the right equipment, I think there's a shot he can make it under the time limit.
The author's key is going to be wether he can work in a group to get towed up to the Tourmalet quickly without spending a lot of energy.
In 2005, my fat ass got a silver medal and a top third placement, so it's not impossible.
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You could fall off a cliff and die.
You could get lost and die.
You could hit a tree and die.
OR YOU COULD STAY HOME AND FALL OFF THE COUCH AND DIE.