The XCC race held in Crans Montana presented a new challenge for racers compared to the previous grass loop in Val di Sole. The loose and muddy steeps in Switzerland made the race feel like a shortened XCO event rather than a typical XCC race. Despite only a few days passing since the last round in Italy, the U23 races saw some impressive performances.
Emily Johnston clinched the women’s victory in the U23 category, while Riley Amos continued his winning streak with his fourth XCC win out of five races in 2024. Puck Pieterse also secured another XCC win, making it back-to-back victories for her in Switzerland. Pieterse battled against tough competition, including an attack from Anne Tauber, but managed to hold her own and finish four seconds ahead of Alessandra Keller. Tauber finished in third place, with Loana Lecomte and Gwendalyn Gibson rounding out the top placements.
In the men’s race, Tom Pidcock delivered an incredible comeback performance. Starting from last place after a slipped pedal, crash, and near miss on the slippery descents, Pidcock demonstrated immense strength and skill as he fought his way through the pack to claim the win by just two seconds. Julian Schelb took second place, with Luca Braidot coming in third, six seconds behind the leader.
After completing their respective races at Crans Montana, both male and female U23 racers tackled a muddy XCO course on Sunday during an XC-only weekend. The competition was fierce and challenging due to the slippery conditions of Crans Montana. However, racers showcased their skills and determination throughout both events.
Overall, both rounds of racing were intense and closely contested as riders pushed themselves to their limits to secure victories on challenging courses that tested their physical abilities and mental fortitude.
