Tired legs were confronted with the
longest, hardest stage. Riders headed over undulating rocky and sandy tracks
towards Teguise where challenging trails awaited: narrow, loose singletracks
winding around volcanoes; fast, rutted descents; and steep, rocky ascents. Once
in the north of the island, the longest climb, known as the Tabayesco climb,
snakes up on gravel doubletrack to the highest point, clearly recognised by the
wind turbines at the summit. Spectacular views rewarded those who had the
energy to look! It’s a mistake to think that it’s downhill from the top; short
fast descents are followed by short sharp climbs. The final 20km are the sting
in the tail – a mixture of sandy then rocky trails lead to Famara and then hug
the coastline back to the finish. With Club La Santa in sight, momentary lapses
in concentration resulted in punctures and crashes, and a number of riders ran
the final kms or tended to bloodied elbows and knees.
After a less than perfect day yesterday,
Bulls rider Simon Stiebjahn was able to set a fast pace and finish the race
with a stage win; however, Sergio Mantacon held on to the overall win. For me
the aim today was to stay out of trouble, ride hard, but descend with a bit of
caution – no need for a crash or puncture on the last stage – everything went
to plan and now I’m able to relax in the sunshine, eating nice food at the Club
La Santa poolside bar J This really is a great location for hard training because the
facilities make everything so easy: wellness centre, massage, sports shop, bike
shop, gym – everything you need is right here. And there’s a really nice vibe.
Women
Sally Bigham 3:35:15
Sandra Santanyes 4:23:45
Mar Franco Peneula 4:43:27
Men
Simon Stiebjahn 3:07:59
Sergio Montecon Gutierrez 3:08:03
Christian Kreuchler 3:08:18
Overall Results after 4 stages
Women
Sally Bigham 08:43:52
Sandra Santanyes 10:25:15
Mar Franco Peneula 11:04:10
Men
Sergio Montecon Gutierrez 07:37:49
Christian Kreuchler 07:40:44
Tiago Ferreira 07:42:19
Simon Stebjahn 07:43:11
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