French Enduro Series 2016 Round 5, Samoens - Day 1
The last round of the French Enduro Series brings us to Samoens, France. This is the location of one of the Enduro World Series last year, and has been a stop on the French Enduro Series for the last 4, this being the 5th. Samoens is in the French Alps and is home to some of the most amazing, natural singletrack around.
The town itself sits at 750 meters, but the lifts ride high above 2,000 meters. Samoens is situated just around the corner, or over the mountain, from this year’s Crankworx Europe stop, Les Gets. Samoens may be the lesser-known cousin of Les Gets and Morzine, but perhaps that’s because of their raw trails, and lack of Bike Park trails.
For this round of the Series, we've seen a few names drop off the race program, due to the EWS moving over America, which also means this round could perhaps be taken by a new winner. We currently see Irenee Menjou leading the series, closely followed by Elliot Trabac and then Camille Servant. But with lots of names that have podium potential, this race does leave a lot in the air.
A stunning small French Alpine town, Samoens is unspoiled by tourism.
The classic architecture preserve Samoens' French heritage.
Owners of homes here take pride in where they live. On the right is the post box, which measures about 4 feet x 4 feet.
More letterboxes.
The Tour came through here just a few weeks ago.
The remnants still on the tarmac.
Beautiful old buildings.
Today the rain was pouring, and the clouds were low, but beyond these clouds are stunning mountains and beautiful vistas.
Samoens.
The mountains engulfed by clouds.
This race is assisted by two long chair lifts, which take care of most of the climbing.
The French Enduro Series has been coming to Samoens for five years now, three years as part of the French Enduro Series, and one as the Enduro World Series. So what’s new? This Sunday is actually the same as last year. The resort put a lot of effort into the track, which runs from the top of the mountain. Not surprisingly, they would like to use it again, so the French racers can ride it too and not just the international riders. It provides an opportunity for riders to compare their times with those of the world's top riders.
Saturday's stage two is similar to last year, with a few new sections, including the new freeride section. Stage one is totally new, which is exciting. Though Samoens has hosted enduro races for 5 years, they are always find new stages and new places to ride. If you come here, there are hundreds of trails. Admittedly, they are all red or black trails, so they aren’t for everyone, but that also makes Samoens a good test for top-level racing. - Alex Balaud, is in charge of taping the course, giving us a little insight.
Saturday's stage two is similar to last year, with a few new sections, including the new freeride section. Stage one is totally new, which is exciting. Though Samoens has hosted enduro races for 5 years, they are always find new stages and new places to ride. If you come here, there are hundreds of trails. Admittedly, they are all red or black trails, so they aren’t for everyone, but that also makes Samoens a good test for top-level racing. - Alex Balaud, is in charge of taping the course, giving us a little insight.
The rider sign-in, was the only thing that riders had to attend today, as practice runs are forbidden before the race.
Today, riders received their first glimpse of the stages.
Series leader, Morgane Jonnier, (left) and second in the overall, Julie Duvert (at right).
If the rain holds, favorites will be Ludovic Oget (left) and second place in the overall, Elliot Trabac (right).
Series leader, Irenee Menjou, is out here, living in his van, and has to go to the pub to jump on the Wifi and contact the outside world.
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2 Comments
- 9 1
takeiteasyridehard
(Aug 5, 2016 at 18:13)
Sorry, I would leave a thought provoking comment, but there's a downhill race this weekend!
- 6 1
Gazavman
(Aug 5, 2016 at 18:41)
Nice Pics, no downhill, but nature and two great chicks ! Tomorow is sunny ! I might go have a look !
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