Fastest across the French Alps: Bailly-Maître wins Trans Provence

Sisteron – Menton, France / Trans-Provence
There is nothing romantic about 6 days, 24 timed stages, 292 kilometers and 8’355 meters of vertical ascent. What seems like a romantic trip past lavender fields in the Provence region of France is in reality one of the roughest Enduro stage races in Europe. François Bailly-Maître is by now known for his ability to ride consistently and it was consistency that brought him the victory at this prestigious race from Sisteron to the Mediterranean Sea in Menton. His toughest rival, Jérôme Clementz (Cannondale/FRA) and Jamie Nicoll (Polygon/NZL) came second and third. Bailly-Maître had to stay concentrated to the very end. „The race isn’t over until you reach the sea. Anything can happen so I tried to stay calm and have fun on the bike. In the end that’s what makes you fast”, commented the happy Frenchman.

Kerstin Kögler (GER) and Aaron Bradford (USA) were also a part of the journey that was physically and mentally extremely demanding. „On day 2 we had to bike hike up 1400 meters alongside cliffs which was certainly the hardest thing I’ve ever experienced in a race”, explained Kögler, who only narrowly missed out of a podium spot. Bradford who was impressed by the countryside had several flats on Day 5 which cost him any chances for a top placing.

The Enduro Racing team will meet in Finale Ligure this weekend for the final of the Enduro World Series.

Results men:
1. François Bailly-Maître 02:36:56
2. Jérôme Clementz 02:37:40
3. Jamie Nicoll 02:39:15
…
23. Aaron Bradford 03:18:17

Results women:
1. Ines Thoma 03:18:26
2. Anka Martin 03:18:26
3. Anita Gherig 03:18:51
4. Kerstin Kögler 03:21:22

See the full results listing here: http://goo.gl/3msdLO