I tried it in Rio but to no avail. I might be, at least in my eyes, the best technically in the sand i just can't match up to those stronger CX riders like Elliott and Gormley who also love the sand. Forcing the pace at the start i really needed to get away either solo or into a smaller group. Having 7-10 riders at the front killed my race after a few laps.
Plus side is a Top10 which i am always delighted with in any race. Added to that a continued strong showing from Goldie. I would have liked him to help me rather than go his own way but the rider that finishes ahead in CX is 9/10 times the better rider on the day. Eventually he'll give something back to me for helping him.
Speaking of helping him the next World Cup race in Port Elisabeth could be great for him. A bit of everything but a good amount of sand. If i can make a good start i want to get up and pull him for a few laps and see if he can fight for a race win or at least to defend his 3rd place overall in the competition. I like the African leg as i will probably be taking a break not long after so a couple more full throttle races are awaiting.
Goldie
I wasn't expecting a Top5 in Rio. Things just kind of happened and i got into the right move for me at the right moment. You can be as good a racer as you like but without luck you'll never get anywhere. I know TDF really wanted a result in that race but he hesitated and i had to go. He'll get there i'm sure but for now he'd be better served helping me and growing his skills more, it's only his 2nd year of CX remember.
Port Elisabeth! World Cup! Let's go and defend that 3rd place overall. It's a good course for me overall but then again it also suits Cornelius a ton. Another jump bar or steps and i'd be able to challenge for the win but as it is i'm just out to try and hold that 3rd and let Vague and Cook do their own thing.
It's not all eyes on Cornelius. If i can't match him so be it i'll limit my losses. But equally if he's struggling i will pounce hard. The World Cup is by big competition goal and i will be all in on the beach of Port Elisabeth. I'm feeling strong so 200% effort and maybe skip one of the other African events to recover.
The wind is blowing hard here in Port Elisabeth. We're on the beach, ready for the first African race on the World Cup calendar. The World Cup really has races all around the world now, including all continents (besides, obviously, Antarctica).
Start Line: The crowd here is a bit of a disappointment. Surely the organisors expected a greater turnout, but they'll have to do with these 80-100. These kinds of things have to grow here, in Africa. Of course, the weather will have something to do with it. It's raining lightly.
Vague defends his World Cup lead today. Cook and Goldenberg are not far off, and both handle the sand better than Vague. Both will be looking to put Vague under pressure.
For Cornelis it's looking worse and worse. He needs a good result today or else he might lose the team's confidence as well. With Alinejad performing better and better, maybe we're in for a power shift in the Lotto-Fidea camp, sooner than we would have expected.
Lap 1: The riders start in the rain. Probably not what they had expected from this first African race this season. We see a concentrated Francis Vague, taking an easier start then we're used of him.
First in the sand is Eldfjallsson. He's not been too hot lately, so maybe this is his chance to turn this around. The sand isn't his favourite terrain, though.
Baris Dao moves forward now, with team mate Power in his wheel. He overtakes Eldfjallsson and starts the first dune in pole position. Power is second, Eldfjallsson third.
Elliot Cook choses a different trajectory than Vague, Gormley and Lipawsky. He glances to his three competitors and tries to read them.
He'd better look ahead of him, he nearly goes down! His reflexes have saved him.
An attack at the front! Power is off! Meanwhile, there is Markson, bringing Goldenberg forward. The Blue Bell CX boys look up to something.
Lap 2: We'll have 9 laps here in Port Elisabeth. The rain is stopping, but the wind keeps blowing hard. It's head wind coming to the finish so timing will be essential if it comes down to a sprint.
But as it stands now, we don't know yet. Power is soloing away from a chasing group, including three of his team mates, Cook, Vague, Gormley, Bollinger and more. The big guns are playing the waiting game.
So far this season, we've had many races where it's war from the word 'go', so that had to slow down eventually. It seems that day has come. A slower start, but a good chance for the early attackers!
And the slow pace allows Cornelis to return to the chasing group! After a bad start, seen too often from him this season, he is now picking up steam, let's hope to see him back today!
Lap 3: Power is leading the race with 10 seconds. I have the feeling he's not giving 100%, though. Is this some sort of plan? It could be.
An important moment in the race as Elliot Cook goes down! He gets stuck in a wrong track going downhill a dune and goes down in the sand! Vague, still hanging on in the chasing group, has seen this, what will he do?
But it's not Vague that profits from this. Immediately, Bollinger and Gormley break away at the front! After an amazing season start, Cook's mere presence invokes fear in some of his competitors. Now that he's gone down, Gormley and Bollinger can't escape fast enough.
And Goldenberg moves swiftly with them! Three man are gone!
Lipawsky now moves to the front of the chasing group and does the pacing. But it seems Vague has some trouble keeping his wheel going up this dune. The entire chasing group rips apart! Cook is back on his bike and is now in 10th position.
Lap 4: Lipawsky, Goldenberg, Gormley and Bollinger have caught Power. Power had been looking behind him for a while, and now that his team mate Goldenberg is here, he starts pacing hard.
We have 5 leaders! Behind them, Cornelis and Vague look evenly strong, and are now actually working together. Who would've thought that? Cornelis and Vague, night and day, working together. This is truly a wonderful sport.
Lap 5: Cook has now caught Vague and Cornelis and brought Dao along with him.
Power is still powering away at the front for Goldenberg, but the pace is dropping slightly. Lipawsky notices this. We're out of the sand now, onto some cobbled roads. And Lipawsky attacks! It's not going fast enough; Cornelis, Vague, Dao and Cook are winning back time!
Power is the first victim of the acceleration! He has to let the four others go. Goldenberg is very sharp today, he reacts easily. Bollinger comes out of the saddle and bridges the small gap, too.
But Gormley is not doing so hot now! He's bend over his steering wheel. 3 seconds is the gap!
On one of the dunes, Cook shakes off Vague! But going downhill, Vague limits the damage and gets back in Cook's wheel. He's making him nervous, this has happened a few times, now.
Every time they get out of the sand, Vague cuts him off at the corners and tries to take the upper hand, going into the next sand section, choosing the best track, forcing Cook to take another trail or stay behind Vague.
Cook's getting annoyed, Vague is playing this perfectly.
Lap 6: Apparently, Bakari is in 30th position. Quite a race from our fan favourite.
Oh! We saw it coming, Cook hit his pedal on the ground, taking a corner too sharply! He goes down pretty hard! Vague just manages to stay upright, but Dao can't avoid it and goes down, too! Cornelis avoids the crash and so Vague and Cornelis are off on their own.
Gormley is still having problems reaching the front of the race. He's only 5 seconds behind, but he can't bridge the gap to Lipawsky, Goldenberg and Bollinger, who continue to work together well.
Cornelis and Vague pass Power, who tries to follow but can't seem to keep up with the Belgian duo on the cobbles.
Lap 7: Three laps remain. Let's take a look where everyone is.
After a slow start, this race is easily turning into one of the best ones this season! There's action everywhere! Even in the background, riders are fighting for every spot. Just now, Karol Konva left Carlisle behind, fighting for a place in the top 20.
The three leaders have really found each other. This is bad news for the chasers, especially Gormley, who must be getting frustrated riding 5 seconds behind the lead of the race, unable to close that gap.
Ketso Tembi is doing well so far, being in the group Cook. But now, he's suffering hard. He can't follow the pace anymore.
Vague is having an absolute top day. Despite the amount of sand, he's riding around comfortably and is successful in keeping off Cook! Who would've guessed that at the start today? Especially after Rio!
Lap 8: This is great to watch! Every group or rider is riding hard now, the situation is hardly changing, nobody wants to give anyone else even a meter.
Cook and Dao have now caught Power, who seems to be pulling through a bit more.
Cook is now getting annoyed because neither Dao nor Power will ride with him. Well, they have Goldenberg, a World Cup outsider, in the lead of the race. Cook is possibly his biggest rival, so of course they won't ride.
Lap 9: The final lap! And Cook still hasn't caught Vague. It's a shame there are only a handful of people here to witness this spectacle.
The three leaders are going into the final lap with one thought only: winning. Lipawsky, Bollinger or Goldenberg?
Or Gormley? Gormley is Irish, so he's a fighter. He's still hanging on 6 seconds, so don't count him out entirely.
But now it's Bollinger who moves onto the attack, on one of the dunes! Goldenberg does what he's been doing all day - reacting instantly. Lipawsky looks great. Finally we see the World Champion in form, we've waited a long time for this jersey to shine again! But can he make it shine even more brightly by winning his first race as a World Champion?
Vague is still riding hard, but Cornelis can do better in the sand. The old cyclo-cross master now leaves the prodigy behind on the top of the dune. Vague looks behind him instantly, showing he can't follow, but is still busy keeping off Cook.
The three leaders are over the final dune. It'll come down to a sprint! Gormley is still pacing hard, but it won't matter, he'll be fourth.
Bollinger starts sprinting from far! Lipawsky overtakes him, still from pretty far. The World Champion is making his move for his first victory since winning this jersey! Goldenberg is glued to his wheel. He now gets out of Lipawsky's wheel and moves next to him! But Lipawsky manages to hold him off!
The World Champion raises both hands! Victory! The Rainbow Jersey conquers Africa! Goldenberg is third and realizes he's done a great job in the World Cup. Bollinger managed to keep second place, but is clearly disappointed.
Gormley crosses the finish line 7 seconds later. What a rough day he's had.
And there's Cornelis, finally some signs of an increasing form. He's fifth.
Francis Vague crosses the fine 6th. He makes a little fist. It's great to see a champion of his caliber can still be happy with a 6th place.
Here comes group Cook! Power leads out Dao for place 7. And it's Dao who takes it, ahead of Cook and Power, who's really been a team player today.
Eldjfallsson completes the top 10 with a good effort. It's been a great spectacle and we already look forward to the most controversial race of last season: Struisbaai!
More Information on World Championships Siena 2016
With the season well underway, more and more details are coming to the surface regarding the 2016 World Championships in Siena.
The race is now said to be held just outside of the city. The typical white roads, known better as the strade bianchi, will be featured in the route. The profile will include quite some climbing and some nasty turns, but the race organisors have opted for an open race, with almost no great difficulties.
This opens the door for many riders. We can easily name 10 candidates for the title on this relatively "easy" route, so many riders will think they have a chance.
We'll keep you informed when more details leak out. But it looks like we're heading towards a beautiful race on those white roads in Tuscany!
After the deep quicksand of Rio, Vague has come back to the front of the race in an unusual manner. Most of all, luck was at his side during the premier hour at Port Elizabeth.
Francis, your thoughts on the race.
Well, the rain added some unexpected variety to this sandy affair in Africa, and it made it tough to keep control. It was much different to Rio, Port Elizabeth has a good mix of levels, with sand being overdominant. The dune climbs were certainly something exciting for the sport, especially when they are muddy.. I tried a different race approach to Rio Cross, and it worked out quite well. Instead of following the accelerations of my opponents, I primarily was concerned with going at my own rhythm. This meant that i was slower than them but in Rio, I was close to bonking, so it was clear to me I couldn't continue racing like that in a terrain that doesn't suit me.
The sand was much different to Rio, or do you have another explanation for your improvement compared to Rio, from 15th to 6th?
Uh, well... it was rainy and some, but overall it's hard to get a feeling for sand at first. When you ride a race like Rio Cross, it is fundamental different than Duinencross where therer are some sand sections. I don't want to dwell on my performance on Rio Cross, but rather prefer to analyze today later and look forward to the next races.
Cook took two falls to the ground, you behind him. Luck?
Cyclo-Cross is a special sport within cycling because we make crashing a necessicty and a artform in itself. There are races, where you either crash or come through. Cyclo-Cross is risk,and sometimes you win, sometimes you lose by it. Cook has tried a lot today, impressive effort as usual. I was quick enough to react and avoid any damage.
Some words on Dries Cornelis, you've said that you wouldn't leave him out just. Did your thoughts change on that?
No, not at all. We worked very well together once we've found each other. I was glad to have him with me because he rode really well, especially through the sand. Having such an experienced rider ahead of you, is hardly a disadvantage. The World Cup is still his classification and he's only a few points down. It'll be a great fight in the coming races. I myself am happy that I managed to extend the lead by a few points to the second placed.
Some words on this debut for Port Elizabeth, and also for Africa's Cyclo-Cross scene...
Yeah, I remember still last year the fuss about Struibaai vividly. The UCI did good to place a race here, it was fun to ride here. If it's sustainable in the long run, as a project and an event, we will see. It's a balanced course and I think the turnout of visitors was also very nice for a first-time event.
The first details regarding the World Championships have been published, some thoughts on that?
I havn't read much yet. Obviously since it's Sienna, it will be a beautiful scenery. I have hoped for a final up the speed road, they ride at Strade Bianche... maybe they implement it as a final run. Either way, it'll be a spectacle and a season highlight.
Edited by Shonak on 02-07-2015 18:58
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
I thought I'd update you how I'm feeling at the moment now I'm really getting into the season. Things are going well, as I have began to settle into life as a crosser. I've had plenty of racing now, and have began to feel more and more comfortable riding alongside the best in the world.
After a good start, where I even managed a 13th place at the Great Hertford Classic, things have began to calm down a little for me. Top-30 finishes have become routine, and although I managed another couple of top-20 finishes in Antofagasta and at the Lancaster Challenge, there has been nothing to be very excited about.
However, I have slowly felt an improvement as a rider, especially on the uphills, and feel stronger every time I get on the bike. Soon a race should come up where I think I can try and contend with the best, and it only boosts my confidence seeing what other neo-pros are managing to achieve.
My latest race was a return to Africa in Port Elizabeth, so on my way to South Africa I stopped off in Nairobi to see my family. It was great to see them, and they told me how proud they were. But soon I had to leave them once again. Hopefully next time I see them it can be at home in Europe, but for that to happen I'll have to earn some prize money first!
The reporters are outside the apartment again today. Of course they are, I hear a yell from outside "Vous n'êtes pas honorer le droit de maillot arc en ciel, sortir ou le donner à Dries!" - "You're not honouring the rainbow jersey right, come out or give it to Dries!" It shatters my heart. There was a crash. I was closer to him than Pierre, now I can only ride my bike, anything more is just, too much. The adrenaline from racing keeps me going.
Pierre goes out to talk to them, it starts raining. One of them yells, presumably to Pierre "He won today, it's time to come out." I look at the clock, can I make an excuse? Can I get away? No I have to face them. I step out the door, I'm glad it's an elevator down to the bottom floor of the apartment block, I couldn't have reached the bottom of stairs.
I come out, Pierre looks surprised, he didn't expect this. The press are all on me. They want know why I didn't speak to them all these months, I can't bare the truth, "Je...Je suis malade." - I...I was sick. It's not true, they know it's a lie, an excuse but I can't tell them, it's too hard.
Pierre asks me if he can, I tell him I don't know. A reporter yells out before he can reply "What was the feeling like of finally winning again?" Glad for this question I can properly reply, I tell him "It was amazing, winning can change everything, I can do this today because of it, just to raise my arms, in the rainbow jersey at that."
The subject quickly goes back to what it was, I'm asked, why are you out here today, of all days? I don't know, Pierre looks at me and nods, I nod back, knowing what he will tell them, that I needed to open up again, I needed to be having a good time again.
Eventually the reporters leave, Pierre asks me if I want to get a drink, I do. We walk down, a kid runs up to us, he obviously wants us to sign something, I do, Pierre asks him his name, "Bakari!" They can't be the same? "And where are you from?" "Gabon!" He started to run away now that he has my signature, but trips over a crack before continuing on his way. Pierre looks at me, "Is that?" I know what he is going to say "I think that kid will be a world champion, I don't know if he is though."
We arrive, I spot Lachie, he's there with the other New Zealanders, we say hi, we have a good time. I know I'll have to be more open again, but today was good.
Last year, Struisbaai was the lowpoint of the season. The first African cross was canceled and so the riders were forced to fly out back to Europe for the Lisbon race. This year, we're ready to race the very first edition of the Struisbaai Cross.
Race Information
Country: South Africa
City/Place: Struisbaai
Classification: Coca-Cola Trophy
Starting Time (Elite Men): 19h30
Favorites: Francis N. Vague, Dries Cornelis, Sylvain Lipawsky, Baris Dao.
Record: New
Race History: Struisbaai is already famous and we're yet to see the first edition. Last year, it was supposed to be the very first big African race, the start of a new era.
Instead, it was canceled. Reasons stated by the UCI included safety hazards. A shortened route was organised unofficially, which was won by Mustafa Moli.
But the race offered a wide storm of critique all across the world. Most of the riders threatened a strike, but in Lisbon, practically every rider was there to do what they do best: their job. The UCI governs.
Route Information
Technical: 4
Sand: 2
Uphill: 1
Cobblestones: 3
Struisbaai offers a strange profile. The ground is quite hard and at times, rocky. There isn't that much sand, actually there are more rocky and cobbled paths than there is sand.
The amount of climbing is neglibible; two bridges and one rocky, short but steep, climb. No, Struisbaai will mostly be decided by the technicality of the profile. Lots of turning, riding on tough roads and natural difficulties on the road.
Expected Weather Conditions
Temperature: 15° C
Precipitation: Dry.
Wind: 3 Beaufort
The last few days, there has been a lot of speculation about a criterium series for cyclo-crossers in August. Coca-Cola wasn't available for commentary, but have stressed many times that they are very happy with their activity in cyclo-cross.
Now it is rumoured Coca-Cola might organize road criterium races for the crossers in August, when the riders are training hard for their new season. Japan, India, Australia and South Africa are mentioned as possible locations for these road criteriums.
But so far, it's guesswork. Coca-Cola keeps quiet as we head into the next Coca-Cola race in Struisbaai.
Ahead of the Struibaai Cross, the news bomb of a possible city criterium-themed racing block in August has been heavily rumoured and making the rounds.
BKCP - Powerplus management has been reluctant to comment at first. However, Francis N. Vague has repeately hinted at his preference of criterium racing over professional road racing, the reason behind it being "the focus on acceleration, attacking and laps course-racing". Vague remains certainly enthusiastic about this sort of an event, and Coca-Cola may already have one of their first CX stars to bring to these new potential field.
There's a different take on the scenarion back in the HQ in Belgium though. First reactions from the management has been passive and obscure. "There's a high risk of crashing and severely getting injured. The speed of the racing is deliberately dangerous." The thinking behind is clear: BKCP Powerplus pays Vague to perform in Cyclo-Cross and in Belgium events. Having him racing minor city crits for some head sponsor, would not benefit them, except for a few nice sidelines in a newspaper when Vague ends up winning something.
In BKCP - Powerplus eyes, the risk and benefits simply won't match up to them. It remains to be seen if Coca-Cola can convince the big cyclo-cross team sponsors to invest in a side-show gig for the lolz of it.
Meanwhile, the world is still getting ready for the Struibaai Cross, with Vague being tipped as one of the favourites. The game plan is clear to BKCP - Powerplus though. "Victory would be sweet, but it's just as crucial that Christian and I perform well. We need to take the fight to Cook, and gain back as much time as possible." Vague has been illusive about his ambitions in the Coca-Cola trophy. Initially it was believed that he would make room for Schiltz when the time comes, but so far Vague is still racing this event series and has recently even declared his sights upon the podium at least.
Asked whether this is due to pressure from BKCP-Powerplus and Coca-Cola, who want to have their defending champion race the actual events, is up to debate. Vague has stated that he loves those races organized by Coca-Cola and it offers plenty of chances for glory.
This also delivers some good ol' fashioned criticsm from Belgium, where by now everything is commented and discussed upon in winter when it's CX time: Is Vague racing too much right now, isn't it time for a pause? And shouldn't he make room for Schiltz in order to get what really matters: The Superprestige and World Cup? "I think I can help myself and Christian the best if I actually race these events. Nobody would profit anyway from me dropping out at some time.. except for my opponents, probably."
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
Now everything is crazy, reporters want to talk to me, now that I seem to be talking again. I'm excited actually. There was an interview earlier today:
Salut, Sylvain, ça va?
Salut, ça va.
You season hasn't gone well so far, you've been consistent, but just the one recent win, are your goals still the same?
Yes, I still have my entire focus on the Christmas classic, as it takes place in my home town. Although it's going to be hard to work it around the calendar, as I should take a break from racing before but Alpe d'Huez is a race I would really like to do. Especially as I get a lot of support from the French public as well, not to mention that the race suits me perfectly.
And how about the world champs?
After Christmas I'll prepare for that, I really want to defend my jersey even if the course doesn't favour me 100% but then again, I was being count out last year.
How about Struisbai this week? Who's your pick for the win?
Probably Vague or Cornelis, although I'll give it a go and attack, as long as we don't have to go on strike again.
You do look in pretty good form though, after your win, how are you feeling?
I'm feeling pretty good, but I need to get back into what's happening, still I think I can get a good result this weekend.
Well, we're here. A year late, but it's happening. The first edition of the Struisbaai Cross. Like in Port Elisabeth, it's a relative quiet day. The crowd decided to stay at home this evening, the cross doesn't enjoy a lot of popularity here.
Despite that, the organisation is doing everything to make this race as entertaining as possible. The riders are ready to start in this cross and fight for the Coca-Cola Trophy.
Weather Conditions
Temperature: 15° C
Precipitation: Dry.
Wind: 2 Beaufort
Start Line: Elliot Cook's lead in the trophy might get endangered today. He faces a strong BKCP team, with Schiltz and Vague. But there are others lurking for this competition. Listerijn, Lipawsky and Bollinger are all ready for today's race.
No sand, but lots of technical difficulties. It looks like we're slowly turning our backs on the sand races and heading back towards the more technical and more uphill races of December.
Lap 1: All riders are ready, and so we're off! And it's Vague who's off to the fastest start today!
He feels good on terrain like this and he's showing it here. The hard underground allows for fast racing and Vague turns the pedals very fast at the start. World Champion Lipawsky seems back and is in second position. After two months of total doubt, he's kicking back and finally wearing the stripes with honor.
Cook is not easily surprised and moves forward, assisted by Ferdi Kloet, who delivers his team leader at the fifth spot before dropping back again. They're fighting for every spot!
The road is narrow here, and Vague looks over his shoulder. No sign of Schiltz, and so he drops the pace.
Lap 2: After a fast start, things have certainly slowed down. The rest of lap 1 was completed at a steady pace, but definitely not high enough to drop any of the top riders.
The slow start once again allowed Cornelis to get over his all too regular bad start and get to the front of the race. This season, Cornelis has seemed to lose his quick draw at the start of the race.
We'll have 10 laps here in Struisbaai. That's mainly because of the relative slow start.
And now it's Baris Dao who wants to kick off the race properly! He ups the pace with an impressive acceleration. Cornelis and Lipawsky are the first to react.
A very steep climb here, and Vague manages to ride it all the way to the top, making the connection with the front of the race.
Soucek has abandoned. Such a talent, but hard to wrap your head around sometimes. Anyway, the race continues without the Czech.
Lap 3: Cook seems to be marking Schiltz in particular. Listerijn, third in the classification, smells an opportunity and attacks. He looks over his shoulder, notices no reaction from Cook and continues!
And so we have a leading group of 5 riders: Cornelis, Lipawsky, Vague, Listerijn and Dao.
Cook is bluffing now, sitting on Schiltz' wheel. Goldenberg and Schiltz won't ride because they have team mates up front. Gormley is coming, though, he will probably ride to close the gap!
And so it happens. Gormley and Mazzarelli join the chasing group and immediately move to the front to relay.
A strange race from Cook. Is he playing a mental game or is something the matter? Vague is riding away slowly, as is Listerijn, Lipawsky and others. But Cook appears not to care at all. Does he only see Schiltz as a true opponent at this point? Hard to read the Brit.
Lap 4: The five leaders continue to gain ground. Gormley and Mazzarelli are simply not riding hard enough. Hammarling and Alinejad have also joined the chasing group, coming out of the background.
Lap 5: The situation is staying status quo. Let's time the difference at the finish line.
Bigger differences than we had anticipated. That means the leaders are really riding hard.
That might also explain the lack of attacks at the front. All five are relaying and so the pace is really, really high!
Lap 6: Schiltz' poker face is nowhere near Cook's. He starts to worry. He has Vague up front, but his dream of the Coca-Cola Trophy is getting endangered with Lipawsky, Listerijn and team mate Vague at the front. He's getting nervous!
Cook is unworried. He hasn't come to the front a second.
The difference to the race leaders is half a minute, now!
Lap 7: And Cornelis attacks! Lipawsky, the World Champion, is quick to react and joins him!
Vague, Listerijn and Dao keep their heads cool and keep up their tempo, hoping Lipawsky and Cornelis will drop back automatically.
Oh and now things are moving! Cook, after 6 laps in Schiltz' wheel, has jumped out of it right before one of the bridges!
And he has certainly dropped a bomb there. Schiltz is unable to react! Only Gormley is now accelerating to go with Cook.
Lap 8: Schiltz is fully chasing Cook now, but it seems Cook had been bluffing perfectly. He's now relaying with Gormley and is making up time to the race leaders!
At the front, the five leaders are back together.
Lap 9: Cornelis tries it again! Vague and Listerijn react straight away, they won't let anyone ride away at this point. Only two laps left.
And it starts to rain, now! Cook and Gormley neared at 25 seconds. What a ride from the Brit and the Irishman!
At the front, Lipawsky and Dao have caught up with the three escapees again. The cooperation is a bit lost. Vague is now the main driving force. He can feel Cook and Gormley breathing down his neck and signals his breakaway companions to relay.
Lap 10: Final lap! Cook and Gormley have more difficulties in the rain and they stopped gaining ground. The rain really washed away their hope of winning here. Though 20 seconds in one lap was a long stretch anyway.
At the front, Dao will be hoping to take this. He should be the quickest man at the front.
Schiltz and Mazzarelli just left Goldenberg behind! Apparently, Goldenberg had a flat tire! He's 10 seconds behind Schiltz and Mazzarelli.
First bridge now. I'm sure Cornelis and Lipawsky still have a plan, not having sprinting legs.
And we predicted it! Cornelis attempts an attack, on the steep climb! But oh so easily countered by Vague, who wants to control the four others. Though he should get rid of Dao, if he wants to win this race.
Vague looks behind him, now. No time to play poker, because Gormley and Cook are coming. Listerijn moves to the other side of the road and makes himself as small as possible.
He takes two meters... Three meters... Four, five...
No reaction. Lipawsky and Cornelis look at Dao and Vague. Vague gets out of the saddle now and increases the pace. He gives the signal with his elbow, relay! But nobody does.
And now Dao does relay, he knows he has to catch Listerijn! But the Kiwi keeps riding hard!
And there is the finish line! Milan Listerijn takes his second victory after a smart attack in the final round!
Dao starts his sprint and looks set for a 2nd place. Oh, no, Vague beats him on the line! Dao is a sprinter, but don't forget Vague can be very fast, too. Especially in these rainy conditions!
Cornelis and Lipawsky finish 4th and 5th.
There come Gormley and Cook, losing 27 seconds.
49 seconds behind the race winner are Schiltz and Mazzarelli. Goldenberg completes the top 10.
Arms raised, mouth open in exhilaration, eyes twinkling, Milan Listerijn was a picture of overwhelmed delight when he cruised over the finish line for the last time today.
Milan, Milan! How do you feel now?
I feel great, it hasn't sunk in yet, I don't really believe it. Oh yeah. Just so glad I'm not injured now *laughs*.
You played a tactical race today, not quite making yourself felt aside from some early moves to regroup.
Yeah I guess I did, more so than usual at least. I didn't really know what to do in my situation, I shadowed Francis really and I didn't want to let anyone go, I don't understand Cook but I didn't want him back when he was gone. I thought, just limit losses, I tried to set pace earlier in to keep it together and I don't know how Francis will feel after the last lap where nobody helped him. I'd be annoyed especially when my biggest competitor was gaining. I wasn't sure to help or not.
In the end, uh, I didn't want Dao near me at the end and sort of went, I tried to sort of slip away while Francis was turned to the others trying to get help. In the end and he got Dao to help but I think the hesitation from Dao won me the race, if he had thought to relay quicker I wouldn't have gained the initial few metres on them.
You are getting used to these Coca-Cola podiums now?
*Laughs* Yeah, I guess. I think it's just coincidence really, this race didn't suit me as much, especially the cobbles I don't know where I stand on them really. I just fought hard for position in the gutters and when not just rode in the crown like the big roadies say to.
You were seen a few days ago with Sylvian Lipawsky as he'smerged from his shell. Why was he keeping himself?
Hey, leave him. No, don't go probing. I don't know but if he wants you to know he would have told you.
Ok. The CX world was hit by a small bomb this week with heavy speculation of a road criterium series for crossers. Thoughts for the CD world and you personally?
My initial thoughts were good, I think it may suit many, especially Dao I think will lap it up. It could be a very good idea to help raise rider's form, hype and money for Coke or whoever. Personally I prefer going to the Southern Hemisphere and mountain biking or more crossing but with the August timing I won't rule it out. Unless you throw some hills in there it won't be something I can compete to win against a guy like Dao or that Dutchie, Kubler. No wrong guy, Kloet. Kubler was the roadie.
What are your thoughts on the route for the World Championships this season? Where do you think you stand in the national hierarchy?
I like the course, it's not as easy as some say and it'll be beautiful in Sienna. On a personal view it may not be somewhere I can think of winning but I may try something. As for the second question on a course like that it's still firmly Michael and Lachy over Ronnie, Josiah and I.
Finally, looking forward to the weekend in Johannesburg in the NES. Thoughts?
Yeah I can't wait, probably an easy day's training tomorrow, just getting to know the route. Then I'll train harder. The course doesn't really suit me but I'll fight tooth and nail against whoever turns up, be it Golddie or Dao or the Asp or van Overberghe or Faizullah.
With a passionate performance, Vague has made his debut at Struibaai Cross. Though the masses of European or American scene are missing, the rider was keen to praise the organization of the event. Maybe due to last year's failure, the peloton is eager to make amends for it.
A second place today; does this feel good to take back time after Rio Cross? What's your take on the race?
Honestly, it was very strange race for me. We had expected that Cook would ride way more aggressively but I talked to Christian and he said that Cook sat on his wheel for some laps. We were surprised by his disinterest into the race at this point. So, of course: It was a change for me to ride a bit more open, without the pressure of Cook or Mazzarelli who have been long time rivals of mine. And I think it was a good opportunitiy to re-enter the fight for the Coca-Cola Trophy. Despite the second place, I'm motivated to make the most out of it.
This is quite some change in your attitude: You've been talking about dropping Coca-Cola Trophy in the past. Is this due to some sponsor pressure as the defending champion?
I think, it's a very interesting challenge to possibly defend the title as the first winner. Of course we had talks about my schedule, but this is more down the line of what my general schedule is.. This has more to do with my own ambitions than with Coca-Cola's interests in me or the Trophy. The races are excellently organized and usually present some great scenery, you are near the fans and it's a fantastic event wherever you go. As an athlete it's part of performing in front of the crowds and the Coca-Cola trophy does an excellent job here. I think it's important to honour this as well. We'll see how it works out for me; right now, I like the thought of fighting for all three classifications as long as an injury or crash doesn't put me out of contention. At the end of the day, I enjoy racing too much to pass down a challenge.
Certainly Cook and Schiltz cared for some confusion today; your take on this?
Uh, like I said: I'm not sure what his end goal was, but now Cook has 4 riders within a two minutes instead of one. He could have strengthen his claim if he had the legs to, but instead it was down to tactical games. I havn't come to know him like that but maybe this is part of why he is such a tough opponent: He can always surprise you.
You seemed to be a little bit frustrated with your 4 companions towards the end.
Towards the end, ha yes! For most of the race we had a good thing going on, everybody wanted to take time on the other riders. I was unsure about Lipawsky and Schiltz; but my coach told me I should continue riding. It was a tricky race, of course. Cornelis is a champion and he races to win, Lipawsky is hard to read but he has something to prove, Listerijn is a dangerous wildcard, Dao a rider you can't take to the line. It was not an easy situation for me to form the race to my favour, indeed I had to follow some moves. I thought I had to keep it together at some point and I didn't want to lose the narrow lead we had over Cook. On the other side, you always want to win.. Listerijn had the most left in the end and made a perfect attack. There's not much I could have done at that point anymore and decided to save the last bit for the sprint. In the last or two last laps, we have lost a bit the relay work and I was a bit disappointed that Lipawsky passed the opportunity of taking more time out of Cook but yeah, in the end it worked out well for me, unfortunately Christian lost time today. I'm sure we'll work on our tactics for the next race but overall, Coca Cola-Trophy got a lot more dense because of today's race.
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
Johannesburg is approaching. Race two of the National Event Series. For those still unfamiliar with the new competition, here is the small introduction we used for the first race:
The NES hosts 3 races throughout the season. There are 20 participants. At the finish line, the first 5 riders will receive points: 10, 7, 5, 3 and 1 points. Moreover, every race will count 8 laps and at the end of the 4th lap, there are another 6, 4 and 2 points to be earned.
This competition is the perfect way for the cyclo-cross fans to get to know the new names before they rise up to the top. We're bound to see an action-packed race, with a shorter parcours and points to be earned halfway.
Race Information
Country: South Africa
City/Place: Johannesburg
Classification: National Event Series
Starting Time (Elite Men): 19h
Favorites: Tariq Faizullah, Eddie Goldenberg, Baris Dao, Milan Listerijn.
Record: New
Race History: Johannesburg was the first location to make a bid for the next NES competition. With a very good proposal, it got accepted as one of the three manches.
Route Information
Technical: 4
Sand: 1
Uphill: 2
Cobblestones: 3
Johannesburg is said to be a weakened version of Struisbaai. Rugged terrain, but overall just a bit easier going. The climbs are not sharp and steep, rather rolling. They're bound to get into the legs though, by the time the final lap arrives.
The general route is easier to take, but obstacles have been added, shifting the focus of this route towards bike handling and power.
Expected Weather Conditions
Temperature: 12° C
Precipitation: Dry
Wind: 1 Beaufort
National Event Series
1
Eddie Goldenberg
12
2
Milan Listerijn
11
3
Baris Dao
7
4
Iban Etxeberdea
5
5
Tariq Faizullah
3
Participants
Eddie Goldenberg
Baris Dao
Karol Konva
Estifanos Mutahi
Fabrizio Lorenzi
Iban Etxeberdea
Jan Soucek
Camilo Osorio
Stan Van Overberghe
Dirk Accostella
Amadou Bakari
Ferdi Kloet
Milan Listerijn
Fred Markson
Pierre Lipawsky
Tariq Faizullah
Mustafa Moli
Frederick Muller
Guido Visconti
Mohuti Sow
It's the day before the race and nerves are kicking in. I don't know why I'm getting them now but I only take it as a sign I am hungrier than ever. This is the one classification I really want to win, I think it's a great platform and a chance for me to consistently try out new tactics and get a feel for the sport without actually being up against Vague or Cornelis.
Since I arrived I've been bombarded with the same question: Why waste time and energy here?
I think it's fairly easy to see why neo-pros, even those breaking through to the subtop, would stay. The points, the training, and the fact that against the technical World Cup and the three-parts tactical one-part happy-go-lucky Coke trophy, the Superprestige, a competition requiring hyper-consistency even more so than the others, isn't the most appealing to young guns inexperienced at the top level, at least in terms of the overall.
Looking at the course, if you said it's baby's-play Struisbaai you'd be wrong. It has cobbles! But yeah, watered-down is the term and I'm picking Faizullah. Especially with Osorio on his side (because suddenly switching to national teams mere days between trade races always works..... YEAH....) he could take he win and jump up a wee bit in the classification if he goes solo.
See you after then,
Milan
24/02/21 - kandesbunzler said “I don't drink famous people."
15/08/22 - SotD said "Your [jandal's] humour is overrated"
11/06/24 - knockout said "Winning is fine I guess. Truth be told this felt completely unimportant." [ICL] Santos-Euskadi | [PT] Xero Racing
The dreaded voice came on the phone,
the message was short and mean,
boy if you keep up this CX shenanigans,
you can find yourself a new team.
It's not easy to find a team,
there's nowhere else to go,
it's find your feet in the mud,
or crawl back to the road.
When you can't balance or
get your rhythm just right,
it causes the kind of stressful thinking
to keep you up all night.
What was his desicion?
It really is quite strange,
big success in the cross,
or go back to his favorite mountain range.
Looking through the calendar he knew. It was crazy, it was ambitious, it required the goodwill of all the heavens.
But this is Lachy Bauer. He knows just how to peak. Expect the unexpected. So this ultimatum he sets himself is ironically inevitable. One season peak, double, probably triple or nothing. Cross or road. The most unlikely of unlikely goals. He will get laughed at, called stupid. How will it end? Melancholic love story or tale of what might have been?
Win the CX World Championships, or succumb to the pressure and leave the sport.
The Johannesburg debut is about to kick off. A field of 20 riders, a classification to defend. In the last race, Goldenberg and Listerijn proved to be the main contenders for the NES trophy. Listerijn is on top form, seeing his victory in Struisbaai just this Wednesday. Baris Dao could be a dark horse for the competition. His eagerness in the intermediate sprint last time was a sure sign. He's extremely fast and is a favorite for today.
Weather Conditions
Temperature: 12° C
Precipitation: Dry
Wind: 1 Beaufort
Start Line: Bike handling will be important today, and so position is of a big importance. A slow start might be irreversible here. The riders seems highly motivated, as we've seen at the recon laps. Especially Listerijn seems quite eager to race. Goldenberg leads the NES trophy, but only there's only one point between the two of them.
Lap 1: The riders are ready to depart. And they're off! A bit surprising, Stan Van Overberghe is off to a very quick start! The favorites don't intend to chase him right away and so we have an early breakaway, quite extraordinary. Most likely, Van Overberghe is looking for some sponsor time. Or is it possible the young flandrien has superlegs today?
Listerijn moves to the front and sets the tempo. It's not too high, but high enough to discourage other attacks at the moment.
Oh, what's this? An early crash! Six riders went down in a tricky corner. Kloet, Mutahi and Soucek are the most important names. The rocky underground really can't be underestimated, especially in these corners, where the slightest slip up can bring you down instantly. One mistake, six riders down.
At the front, Van Overberghe continues to take time. Listerijn and co are following at 7 seconds already. Impressive start from the Belgian.
Soucek is right back in the saddle, it seems. He's trailing 5 seconds behind the compact group. That group is still being lead by Listerijn. Goldenberg and Markson come to the front now, too. Dao is keeping to the background for now. It's still early in the race.
Lap 2: Van Overberghe is still looking good. He's got over ten second on the chasers, where Markson has taken over command, now. And he's turned up the heat, too.
Soucek just managed to regain contact with the chasing group before the increase in pace. It'd be hard to catch up, now. Several riders have problems keeping up with the speed!
Van Overberghe starts to show signs of weakness. He's all alone at the front. Markson is giving it all and now the gap is melting! Ten seconds.
Pierre Lipawsky is having a complete off-day and has to let Bakari ride away. He's last in the race.
We're approaching the line for lap 3. Here are the names of the riders in the chasing group: Markson, Goldenberg, Listerijn, Dao, Faizullah, Konva, Etxeberdea, Soucek, Visconti.
It's nine against one.
Lap 3: Van Overberghe's escape is doomed. He's got three seconds left. It was an impressive attack, but he fell back too soon and proves he still has a way to go to reach to subtop of cyclo-cross.
Listerijn attacks! He makes the jump forward and reaches Van Overberghe. He uses his slipstream to accelerate for a second time.
Fred Markson, now riding fully for Goldenberg, won't let Listerijn ride away and chases hard. Visconti is struggling to keep up. Markson is forcing everyone to ride hard, so they'll make mistakes easier.
Right before the line, Listerijn is caught!
Lap 4: One lap left for the intermediate sprint, where the riders can win 6, 4 and 2 points. Markson takes his foot off the gas now that Listerijn has been caught.
And Jan Soucek decides to use this opportunity to attack! Faizullah sneaks along with him.
The Americans decide to let them go. They're controlling this race. Markson and Goldenberg seem strong enough to pull it off. But Listerijn won't succumb to their strenght easily. He's a fighter.
But now it's Baris Dao who wants to force something! He sees the 6 points riding away and decides to go after them! Goldenberg and Listerijn look at each other and play a round of bluff poker. Dao is gone!
Dao reaches Faizullah and Soucek and the three will sprint for the intermediate sprint.
Unsurprisingly, Dao takes the 6 points. Faizullah takes 4 points and Soucek didn't really bother much with the sprint. He takes 2 points, but seems more keen on the victory of the day.
Lap 5: Soucek is the engine of this escape. Dao and Faizullah take their turns, too, though.
The climbs are starting to take a toll. Etxeberdea falls off the pace in the chasing group, where Markson is taking the lead once again.
Oh, a second crash for Soucek in this race! The same corner where he went down earlier, that's never good! This time it looks like he's hurt himself, though... Faizullah is held up by the fall and so Dao is on his own at the front. With Markson coming out of the corner already, he sees the pointlessness of this action. He waits.
And so we're back together. Three laps remain!
Lap 6: The names of the leaders: Markson, Goldenberg, Listerijn, Dao, Faizullah, Konva.
There are no certainties in life, but expect the winner to be one of these six. Etxeberdea isn't far behind, but is losing ground, so unless a miracle happens, he's out for the victory and his fourth place in the classification.
Markson is still leading the group, but the pace isn't as high anymore. I think he's nearing the end of this amazing work he's done so far.
Listerijn noticed this, too. He's been waiting for this. Let the Americans do the work, then try to finish them off, he must've thought! Listerijn attacks!
Markson passes. Goldenberg rushes past his team mate and follows the unchained Kiwi!
Lap 7: Listerijn keeps a small lead over Goldenberg. The chasing group is now being lead by Konva. Konva has been growing steadily this season. Can he pull off a surprise today?
If so, he'll have to catch Listerijn and Goldenberg first. That's just not happening right now.
It's a long chase for Goldenberg. He had probably hoped to catch Listerijn quickly. The chase is tiresome and he'd best catch up as quickly as possible, now.
Goldenberg uses one of the climbs to get back on Listerijn's wheel.
Lap 8: Final lap! Listerijn and Goldenberg will fight for the victory and the 10 points. Basically, who takes the win also takes the lead in the NES trophy.
In the background, Dao and Faizullah have joined in the chase, but their efforts come too little, too late. It's between Goldenberg and Listerijn now. No surprise, as the two have already proved their value, even in the professional peloton with the top of cyclo-cross.
The longest climb of the profile. Not very steep, but it's bound to hurt after a race like this. Listerijn steps on his pedals. He's putting a lot of pressure on Goldenberg, who used a lot of energy in the chase.
There's a small gap. It widens... Listerijn rides away from Goldenberg! Is this the decisive action?
Yes it is. There is the finish line. Listerijn raises his arms high. After Seattle and Struisbaai, he takes the Johannesburg race. Goldenberg finishes 2nd. Tired and visibly disappointed. Listerijn overtakes him in the classification. One race left and if we've calculated it correctly, only 2 points difference. Kitakyushu in January will bring fireworks!
Dao outsprints Markson for the last remaining podium place and thus keeps his chances open for the NES trophy as well!
Arms tiredly raised above his head, gasping for breath, Milan Listerijn lets the ride and his infectious grin speak for themselves as he crosses the line.
Listerijn, congratulations. Two races, two wins. Thoughts?
Oh man, I'm just exhausted. That was the hardest race tactically I've ever played. Goldenberg and Markson played me to perfection until Markson had to drop off. I knew that the other three were done and I think he was leaving too much to himself maybe, though it did keep me from attacking. I tried to get the jump on Goldie by going before Markson dropped off and I think the extra lap in the wind cost him. Eventually he showed his strength though, and the real fun began.
Talk us through that last lap, what was in your head?
I thought I was done, obviously I had to ride to keep Dao off me and so did he, he has a better sprint than me but Dao is even better than him I think. I had to get him off as soon as I knew we had enough time because I really wanted the win even more after we looked at each other at the sprint. I'm really happy to get even with him and to be honest I enjoy riding against him, it's a nice little rivalry.
What about the competition now, thoughts?
Yeah today was nice in terms of the top three, we rode as rivals, a Dane, a Belgian Kiwi and a Yank. Call me paranoid but I'm just worried that early on in Japan they could make a pact as trade teammates to get rid of me before fighting it out, a prospect that I'm conscious of as especially Dao is stronger uphill than I am. Maybe I can make a ragtag squad of my own if it seems like they are.
Where to next in terms of races?
It's planned out that I will keep racing because I feel great but I don't want to fatigue myself now I'm up there in two classifications. Probably skip the races that aren't as suited to me. No definitive schedule yet.
24/02/21 - kandesbunzler said “I don't drink famous people."
15/08/22 - SotD said "Your [jandal's] humour is overrated"
11/06/24 - knockout said "Winning is fine I guess. Truth be told this felt completely unimportant." [ICL] Santos-Euskadi | [PT] Xero Racing
For my last two races I returned to my home continent for the first time in over a year. On the way I managed a stop at home in Kenya - it was great to see my family again and share with them some of my earnings from around the circuit. It's the least I can do, especially after I left them to pursue my dream. I'm so grateful their support has allowed me to do that.
As for the racing in South Africa, the long season has started to take a toll on my legs. After a tough cross in Port Elizabeth where I finished 22nd I should have been among the favourites for Johannesburg, which almost perfectly suited my ability on the cobblestones. Unfortunately though I could only manage 13th, which was below my expectations really.
I hope this doesn't signal the end of my season results-wise, but we'll have to see. Whatever happens, this season has already been great for me.
I see the finish and sprint full out, cross the line and literally tip all the water in my bidon into my eye, I get to the race doctor as fast as possible and the next hour is spent trying to get that rock out of my eye.
The rocky ground made this not a good course to not wear glasses and the loss of depth-perception combined with an off day gave me no hope on holding even Bakari's (who actually finished)wheel.
Also heard a rumour that Lachi's contract is in danger, I don't know if he realises how many teams would want a rider like him.
Anyway, I've got to get out for an early flight to Lisbon. À bientôt!
Someone slipped. Ferdi fell. The bikes have brakes. Ferdi knows you need them for the corners, but Ferdi's (track) bikes are so much less dangerous because there is no braking and less slipping. Ferdi was going to win the sprint, there was no sand for Ferdi to fall in and no hills for Ferdi to suffer on
Ferdi's arm hurts, Ferdi fractured something. Ferdi thinks Ferdi is sick to, but they say Ferdi is not. Ferdi finished the race but Ferdi won't be at Lisbon. Cook is unhappy at Ferdi. Cook wanted Ferdi at Lisbon, Ferdi thinks.
TDF
![imgur.com/KlJUqDx.jpg[/img[img]]https://imgur.com/yUygrQ.jpg](https://imgur.com/KlJUqDx.jpg[/img[img]]https://imgur.com/yUygrQ.jpg)
Port Elisabeth - Report 
Johannesburg - Preview
