Last year in Tweedlove I got on the EWS podium for the first time. I also know that anything can happen in a two-day race. The closer I got to the EWS race in Scotland, the more excited I got. The race in Tweedlove can be divided into two different parts.
The first day in Innerleithen with routes similar to the DH, very closely planted trees and roots. The second day in the Glentress area with routes that mix technique and speed. I resolved to get through the first day as unscathed and energy-saving as possible, and then to give it my all on the second day, when my physical condition could be the deciding factor.
The main thing was to plan the reconnaissance trips, which were spread over 3 days, as well as possible in order to "study" the routes as well as possible and in a way that saved energy. On the first day I decided to do stages 1 and 2 twice and stages 3 and 4 once. That meant at least about 2000m ascent. Rain showers were on the program for the whole of the next day. On the climb to Stage 5 the rain turned to ice and with the wind it was like standing on a beach in the middle of a sandstorm! Stage 6 appeared to be a "key stage".
I knew that this exhausting and not technically demanding special stage with its more than 10 minutes driving time and the 3 hard climbs would separate the wheat from the chaff and would be criticized by some. Personally, I train for both technical and physically demanding routes. I think that corresponds to Enduro. We're not talking about DH. The next day I decided to cut back on the scouting trips to save myself for the race.
A bright sun awaited us on the first day of the race. So we had stress-free weather on a day that was going to be very long. I fell right on the first special stage which was a mix of rocky sections followed by sections with fairly high steps. I was a bit in shock after such a bad start! The second special stage was fast, the trees were close together and there was a constant risk of getting caught with the handlebars at high speed. I felt a lot better and set the second best time. The third special stage started very quickly and far above the tree line. Then she led into the forest and everything suddenly went dark.
In our sport it is always important to see well, especially in these conditions. Powerful goggles or glasses are essential. In the end, I had a ride without any major mistakes. I used the subsequent transfer leg to refill water. I was happy! Space free for the last special stage of the day. Part of it ran along route 3. Again, this meant trees were close together and roots were wet. There was a constant risk of falling. I misjudged, took a right turn too fast and found myself on the ground.
I was angry with myself as I was losing ground on the leaders and was only 9th at the end of day one. I wasn't frustrated for long and quickly turned my attention to day two. Everything was still possible, but I should give everything for it! When I woke up I was told that two of the day's special stages were to be canceled for safety reasons due to poor weather conditions. I could fully understand this measure, but was very disappointed.
For me, a reduced race meant reduced opportunities to catch up. As predicted, the weather had changed brutally. A cold wind and rain had replaced the previous day's sun. Special stage 5 was more DH-typical. It was incredibly muddy and there was a risk of getting stuck at every rut. This was a special test for acrobats. But driving more slowly was not necessarily the right solution! You had to hold on tight to the handlebars and try to maintain a good speed without falling out of the saddle. I got out of the affair rather well and drove the third best time. The 8th and final special stage started a little higher than originally planned and ran on part of special stage 6 for about two minutes. It was a typical “bike park” section. There was a climb and then a very fast part. After that came another short climb and finally the descent to the finish line. Maintaining a good pace throughout the downhill sections and going all out on the climbs would be key. I prepared myself to go to the pain threshold. But I had no other choice if I wanted to get back on the podium!
That last run was all or nothing for me. I often rode at the limit of a fall and on the climbs I rode with no regard for my strength reserves. I was constantly struggling with myself and was torn between wanting to win or ending my suffering. Luckily, the will to win was stronger and I chose to ignore my aching legs and burning lungs. At the finish I was happy with myself and curious to find out my result.
10 minutes later when I got to the scoreboard I couldn't believe my eyes!! Not only did I manage to catch up on a place on the podium, but also for the overall victory. My first win at the EWS! But I only really became aware of the whole thing at the award ceremony. A dream became reality. I'm also proud to be the new leader in the overall season standings.
Now a few weeks of rest before the French race with long special stages in the high mountains. I wish it was that far!