Race Report: Day 1 - EWS North American Series - Northstar, California

Andréane Lanthier Nadeau - Day 1 lead Pro Women

Day 1 of the 2018 Northstar Enduro sent 450 racers out today to tackle the first three stages of Northstar California Resort's infamously intense and technical course. The two-day race is the fifth round of the California Enduro Series, the second round of the CES Golden Tour, and the second round of the EWS North American Enduro Series.

By the end of this first day, EWS North American Enduro Series current leader Richie Rude was leading the pro men with a total time of 21:26:961, nearly 18 seconds ahead of CES contender Evan Geankoplis (currently standing at second for the series overall). Curtis Keene, Marco Osborne and McKay Vezina rounded out the day's top 5 fastest male riders.

EWS rider Andréane Lanthier Nadeau came in fastest on the day for pro women with a total time of 24:59:586. Amy Morrison, who is currently standing at third in the EWS North American Enduro Series, was a mere three seconds behind Nadeau, putting her in second. CES contender Essence Barton (currently standing at second for the series overall), EWS North American Series contender Zephyr Sylvester (currently at fourth), and Anna Sullivan rounded out the top five fastest female racers on Day 1.

After a tight day of racing some of the sport's most challenging terrain, riders and fans alike are eager to see how Day 2 plays out. After pushing limits on today's three stages, riders will dig deep for tomorrow's tracks which are even more physically demanding and technical. Beginner, Sport and Expert riders will race another three stages, while Pros take on four more, including the highly anticipated and especially rowdy Stage 7.

Follow the stage by stage action at live.californiaenduroseries.com, and check out the course map and schedule here. If you're in the area, come cheer on the racers in person — the Northstar Enduro is spectator-friendly and features a fun vendor expo as well as great food and a full bar. Be sure to stop by the CES booth to check out the FOX fork raffle and Voler CES jerseys; proceeds benefit the 501(c)3 non-profit series.

Learn more about the California Enduro Series at californiaenduroseries.com.