While warming up for our prologue yesterday afternoon Oli and I had the same feeling. It was like we were about to do an XCO race. Quite ironic as the Pioneer is as far from an XCO race as there can be.
Anyway we had a great ride smashing it around the purpose built trails, opening it out where need be but not taking any stupid risks to finish the day in 6th place, well within striking distance of the top 5 teams.
A big group rolled out this morning and with no seriously big efforts a group of about 7 teams stayed together until the 50km mark. Oliver and I tried our luck with an attack off the front some 40km in. Although we were given some breathing space at first we were reeled in 5km later.
On the attack.
Consistency was the name of the game and after Oli went through a bit of a bad spot he came through strong at the end and we finished in a solid 4th place.
The route was great with quite a good mix including some awesome technical downhills and riding along the Red Stone cliffs.
Hasi and Zami also had a good day finishing in the top 30mens teams again.
You can catch daily highlights of the race on SS6 at 9pm every night.
Until tomorrow, ciao!
The event photographers on the move!
Hopefully we don’t see this vehicle this week!
All images credit: Bridge Cape Pioneer Trek
chriswolhuter.com 