Vibram Enduro of Nations, Day Three - In Photos

As Saturday dawned over Sauze D'Oulx it looked like the weather had decided to be kind, but as the riders were gathering at the start it changed its mind and the first drops of rain fell from ominous, grey clouds. Then it changed its mind again. It's been that kind of day, but somehow it's mostly held off and everyone who bought spike tyres yesterday is probably wondering if they can return them (of course there's always tomorrow for it to rain). But enough about the weather (I'm British, it's an obsession). Here's my third installment of snaps from the Vibram Enduro of Nations, there are even some riding shots in here this time (and there will be more in with the results).

More than 250 riders will take to the hill for the race this weekend. I got talking to Aamir, who originally came from Pakistan (although I'm not sure he counts as an international rider after living just down the road in Turin for 13 years), and he summed up the vibe this weekend perfectly - "it's my first race and I'm here for the enjoyment. It doesn't matter if I come last or second to last, I will enjoy it."

Early morning weather check over the pits. Errr...

Ben Cruz is a long way from his home in California and although the rest of team USA didn't make it, he more than held his own against the top European riders.

I wouldn't have fancied working on one of the lifts today, those 250+ bikes weren't going to lift themselves (and they won't let you lift your own, in case you were wondering).

Stage one started 1,000m above the village, although for this stage riders descended back down to the first lift station.

One third of team Great Britain, Alex Stock flat out on the top of the hill. It's his first year racing a full season of enduro but after the second stage he was sitting in third, despite admitting he didn't go all out.

Over the day riders climbed 900m in total. Although I do wonder if she simply wasn't impressed by us cheating and using a pick-up truck to get down the hill.

More of that climb...

Matteo and Simon, these are the guys that will bringing you the pro photos from the race shortly.

As you drop down the hill the trails change from high, alpine scree to the most incredible pine forests.

Another third of team Great Britain, James McKnight, on the gas in the woods.

Those pine forests again.

And stop. Back at bar Scacco Matto...

What can I say? I was supposed to be taking photos of the team ceremony, but after a day of taking photos mostly of sweaty men, my attention may have wandered...

And there we go. Day three. Weather report is still that I don't have a clue, the riders are looking tired this evening, but everyone is smiling after a great day's racing. Hopefully I'll get my hands on the results and photos for you very shortly too...

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mattwragg
Member since Oct 29, 2006
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