Day 5 of Mavic® Trans-Provence showed in equal measure the spirit of cooperation and support that has always been the part of the spirit of Mavic® Trans – Provence, but also the transition of the event, the sport, and the concept of multi day enduro style racing. From a mostly amateur affair to a to a recognised discipline in its own right, and with it the need for more stringent rules and the application of penalties for those that break them.
Day 5 itself is a very physical day with some of the hardest pedalling, Special Stages of the week and still really technical. If you’re not already spent after four days of riding and racing the days Special Stages are punctuated by big asphalt climbs over two Cols.
So lets talk about the spirit of the event then, and what makes it so special. Yesterday saw Fabien Barel happily lend his spare Mondraker to one of our amateur racers to ride after he broke his own bike. No fuss , no drama just another rider helping out another rider – Watching the riders face as he was handed Fabien’s nearly brand new Mondraker was a priceless moment.
More of the spirit of camaraderie was seen at the top of the second Col, and the start of Special Stage 3. Mixed groups of riders clean the last of the climb, maybe led out by a pro downhiller with a xc world cup racer in tow, the most unlikely grouping of riders imaginable taking turns to slug it out in front. Taking time to catch their breath, sitting along the edge of the start of third Special Stage to cheer each other on through the first few switch backs. Imagine dropping in to a section and being whooped and whistled for your efforts by Mark Weir, Fabien Barel, Nico Vouilloz , Nicolas lau , Matti Lehikoinen ,Anne-Caroline Chausson and Adam Craig to name but a few and you’re just a regular rider who’s out for the week to take part. Where else are you going to being cheered on by some of the fastest riders in the world? All of this happens, and it only happens at Mavic® Trans- Provence!
Top 5 after day 5:
1. Nicolas Lau
2. Jérôme Clementz
3. Nicolas Vouilloz
4. Mark Weir
5. Joe Barnes
Day five results | Over all results after day five
Pictures: Irmo Keizer, Michiel Rotgans
Did you enjoy this article? If so, we would be stoked if you decide to support us with a monthly contribution. By becoming a supporter of ENDURO, you will help secure a sustainable future for high-quality mountain bike journalism. Click here to learn more.
