While the Marathon and Stage Racing season may be starting to wind down in the Northern Hemisphere, the calender for 2012 is starting to grow. There are still some fantastic races yet to run – like Round 4 of the UCI Marathon Series, and the Roc d’Azur to name only two. But for those who cannot race the whole season long out of a backpack, wheelie-bag or van – it’s time to start planning 2012.
Any Marathon Mountain Biker shooting for the stars should certainly lok at the 2012 UCI Marathon Series, as it offers a combination of well proven events in classic Marathon country, and a few more in great travel destinations. It should be easy enough to find some agreeable goals. But what about Stage Racing? If you’re traveling from race to race, a stage race just makes sense. You got great ‘value’ for your time away from home, you meet new people, you race across regions and countries – and you get strong!
The calender is littered with fantastic Stage Race opportunities. From the Mountains to Beach and Terra Australis early in the year, the to ABSA Cape Epic, Red Centre Enduro, Alpen Tour Trophy, Trans Germany, Beskidy Trophy, TransAlp, Sudety MTB Challenge, Trans Wales, BC Bike Race, TransPyr, Trans Rockies, Breck Epic, Trans Schwarzwald, Ironbike, La Ruta, The Crocodile Trophy… the list seems endless. However there was something missing.
Eastern Switzerland – specifically the Graubunden region – is a Marathon Mountain Bikers paradise. The routes are big, the mountains are big, the passes are mostly rideable, the food is amazing and the scenery is spectacular. Throw in great accommodation options, fantastic transport connections and excellent weather patterns – and you have a magical area for racing and training.
Earlier this month a new Stage Race was unveiled for September 2012 – The Tour-Grischa. Set to run from 17th – 22nd September in 2012, it will include five stages and one time trial. The stages will range from 50-90km with upto 3000m of climbing each day. The time trial will be something special – more than likely racing up to a ski station, 15-20km with upto 1000m of climbing. Passing through towns such as Lenzerheide, Flims, Savognin and Brigels, racers will experience a wide range of the Graubunden region. Catering for hobby bikers to top professionals, the race will hold something for everyone – and no doubt with Swiss efficiency.
More details are yet to be released, but this event promises to be worthy of a week of your time in 2012. Check the event website for updates, and sign up for their newsletter.