The 2011 Urge Cabo Verde event has become more than a race to its participants. As Weir puts it, it's a chance "to become a better person and friend to everyone."
Some of the experiences were definitely more pleasing than others. Weir recounted tales of loose volcanic terrain, exhaustingly steep "hike-a-bikes" cresting the volcano, and harrowing, endless, leg-cramping descents. Riders were forced to put their nerves, fitness and skills to the test (not to mention their bikes!) as each day brought new challenges to overcome.
Three-hour hikes.
Fog around every corner.
Don't blow that corner!
Island transport: get sea sick? Hope not!
Congrats to the athletes for finishing strong despite the challenges; for their incredible show of sportsmanship and support for one another that kept everyone safe and in one piece; and to everyone who supported the charitable efforts that will leave the Cabo Verde island communities with a lasting and positive impression of mountain bikers.
Overall Finishes:
1 - Nicolas Vouilloz (Lapierre) – France : 1h03’30
2 - René Wildhaber (Trek - Dakine) – Switzerland : 1h05’36
3 - Fabien Barel (Mondraker) - France : 1h06’16
4 - Jérôme Clementz (Cannondale - Mavic) - France : 1h09’49
5 - Mark Weir (WTB - Fox Racing Shox) – USA : 1h11’26
6 - Greg Doucende (Performance Parts - Trek) - France : 1h13’03
7 - Rowan Sorrell (Orange - Mojo) - Wales/UK : 1h18’24
8 - Hans Rey (GT Bicycles - Adidas) – USA : 1h25’02
9 - Sam Peridy (Scott) - France : 1h27’00
10 - Marco Nicoletti (Niner) - Italy : 1h28’51
11 - Samuel Normand (Lol Racing - Yeti) - France (non-pro) : 1h31’20
Women:
1 - Tracy Moseley (Trek World Racing - Osprey) - UK : 1h22’13
2 - Sabrina Jonnier (Groupama - Punch Power) - France : 1h36’50
3 - Anka Martin (Santa Cruz - Sram) - RSO/USA : 1h37’52
4 - Dorothea Lindtke (Rocky Mountain - Brake Authority) - Germany (non-pro) : 2h05’18
Safe travels home everyone!
