Trans-Provence Midweek Photo Epic: Views to Behold
As we are about to enter day 5 of the 2015 Trans-Provence, the deck of cards is far from shuffled. Nico Lau is leading with a very slim margin over Jamie Nicoll. One minute and 21 seconds with two full-on race days to go. Chris Johnston and Matti Lehikoinen remain a threat as well, being just 2 minutes and 39 seconds behind Lau. One flat tyre, a crash or any other misfortune might just change the outcome of this incredibly tight race. Tracy Moseley has a more comfortable lead of 6 minutes and 26 seconds over her closest competitor, Anka Martin, whilst Claire Buchar is very close to stealing second from Anka. Yet the Trans-Provene is not only about racing. 80 participants ride. Some race, others are here to enjoy incredible trails in stunning landscapes in vast remote areas. Often, words fail to describe the experience that is the Trans-Provence. Here's a picture recap of the past four days.
Each rider received this custom Trans-Provence fender. May the message be clear.
Overall standings here.
MENTIONS: @ikeizer, @SamNeedham
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 Riders await the start of the first special of the second day. |
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| Liaisons might sometimes be more enjoyable than actual specials, as the lack of timing relieves pressure. |
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| A smooth singletrail in a remote valley in France. Life's good. |
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| The way up is a long way up. |
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| Joe Barnes's bike did not turn up for the first three days. He rode the bike of yours truly on day 1, after which Nico Lau gave him his 180mm bike. On day 4, Joe was finally able to ride his own bike. |
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| Awesome trails and weather to die for, but riders have been swarmed by flies for the past days. The south of France is a popular destination for these little buggers. Horseflies are among them too. |
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| Six days of early mornings, hard labour but foremost, incredible views. Col des Champs is one amazing place to be for sunrise. |
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| Photographer Gary Perkin exits a steep section of trail. Overshoot this corner and you will have a very slim chance of survival. |
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| Never make the mistake of thinking the climb is finished. Rounding the corner, these riders face another fierce uphill after hours of sustained climbing by bike and on foot. |
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| Ryan Walsch keeping it tight at the bottom of one of the specials during day three. |
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| This race is enjoyed by all. Joe Barnes, Nico Lau and Ludo May are getting ready to drop into the famous 'Grey Earth' stage. |
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| Nico Lau started the week slightly conservative but has taken the lead over Jamie Nicolls. |
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| The event hosts many nations. Canadian Claire Buchar speed tucks down Grey Earth. |
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| The clock reads 18.00. After being on the bike for over ten hours, this rider is about to finish the third day of the Trans-Provence. |
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| The start of day four meant traversing and climbing through yet another beautiful valley. |
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| Mountain staff carry out important duties all day. |
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| Blind riding is challenging. Who goes out first is up to the riders. There is no set starting order. |
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| Matti Lehikoinen has been riding fast during the Trans-Provence. Although still suffering from a shoulder injury, Matti battles for the podium. The fourth day saw him crash on that same shoulder yet he is able to carry on. |
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| On the fourth day, three completely new specials proved a challenge for many as fatigue kicked in. Many struggled, some crashed. |
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| Gasping for air, a steep climb proves too much for this rider. |
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| This abandoned house can be found in between the first and the second special of day four. Its remains largely untouched for many years, showcasing the remoteness of the area. |
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| The feeding station. Incredible amounts of food are consumed by participants each day. |
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| This French bartender had the day of his life. Grinning like a Cheshire cat as he sold out on all of his beers. |
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| Sam Flanagan picked up this souvenir and stashed it neatly. No word yet if Hope will be producing this convenient storage system for the masses in the near future. |
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| Tracy Moseley is very, very fit and very, very fast. |
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| Hard work, great trails and blazing sun. This beer is deserved. |
Overall standings here.
MENTIONS: @ikeizer, @SamNeedham
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Member since Jun 4, 2009
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Definitely want to ride this someday ...
A few weeks ago i rode the raid les Chemins du Soleil (Saillans - Gap) and thought it was crazy, but this is way more nuts.