There’s nowhere to hide in a time trial –
each rider battles alone – there are no tactics; riding as fast as possible
from start to finish is all that matters. Starting from the picturesque Famara
beach, where perfect lines of blue swell dissipate onto white sand, riders are
sent off the start ramp – at one or two minute intervals – up a gravel track
which is at times pretty bumpy. At approximately 20 minutes in, just when legs
are starting to burn, a narrow, steep, loose singletrail adds an extra sting. A
short series of rocky ascents and descents along a ridge overlooking Famara
beach leads to the halfway point. From here onwards it’s a case of staying low,
minimising the impact of the strong headwind, while climbing steadily towards
the church in the distance marking the finish line at the summit.
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| TORQ Banoffee Guarana Gel ready for easy access |
Chasing and catching people is what I like
to do, it’s motivating and allows access to the last dregs of energy, but today
I was the mouse: fast men (from higher in the GC) caught and past me playing
with my mind: Am I riding hard enough? Am I going backwards? Was I faster last
year? These thoughts must be pushed aside and replaced by positive ones: I feel
strong today! Satisfyingly I was faster than last year, despite not having a
carrot dangling in front of me – last year I was able to chase a fast female
rider who set off ahead of me.
In the men’s race Simon Stiebjahn, the
young Bulls rider, lost time to race leader, Sergio Mantecon, and consequently
his second place in the GC. With the hardest stage to come – 80km over
challenging terrain in the north of Lanzarote - it’ll be interesting to see if
anyone can challenge Sergio for the overall lead. For me a comfortable lead
doesn’t mean I’ll necessarily take it easier, but I will be aiming to stay out
of trouble! Fingers crossed for one final day of good luck.
Women
Sally Bigham 1:03:57
Sandra Santanyes 1:16:39
Mar Franco Penuela 1:20:25
Men
Sergio Montecon Gutierrez 00:51:05
Tiago Ferreira 00:52:19
Christian Kreuchler 00:52:50
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| Courtesy of Bob Foy |
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