The fifth XCC race of 2024 in Crans Montana is now the focus of attention as Elite riders compete for victory. The course offers a unique challenge with loose and muddy terrain, making it more like a shorter XCO event than usual. Yesterday, the U23 racers completed their race and set the stage for today’s action.
In the Elite Women’s race, Puck Pieterse claimed victory, securing back-to-back wins in the XCC. Despite facing tough competition throughout the race, Pieterse managed to fend off a last-lap attack and crossed the finish line just four seconds ahead of Alessandra Keller. Anne Tauber finished in third place, followed by Loana Lecomte in fourth and Gwendalyn Gibson in fifth.
In the Elite Men’s race, Tom Pidcock staged an incredible comeback after starting from last place on the first lap. Despite encountering difficulties such as a slipped pedal and crashes on slippery descents, Pidcock displayed sheer determination and rode through the pack to claim victory by just two seconds. Julian Schelb secured second place, with Luca Braidot finishing in third, six seconds behind.
The results for both Elite Women and Men are provided below:
Elite Women:
1st. Puck Pieterse: 19:03
2nd. Alessandra Keller: 19:07 (+4)
3rd. Anne Tauber: 19:07 (+4)
4th. Loana Lecomte: 19:11 (+8)
5th. Gwendalyn Gibson: 19:36 (+33)
