Defending Champion Cory Wallace and Britain’s Catherine Williamson claimed opening honours of the men’s and women’s races on stage 1 of the 2013 GENCO Mongolia Bike Challenge presented by Orbea on Sunday.
The opening of the 7-day race was a 120-kilometer loop from the Genghis Khan Statue in Tuv Province. A hot day combined with almost 3,000 meters of climbing up numerous short but steep sections which tested pros and age-groupers alike.
Cory Wallace has held the leaders jersey since 2012. Photo ©: Erik Peterson
Canadian strongman Wallace, continued his utter dominance at the Mongolian race, regaining the Pink Jersey which has held since stage 1 of the 2012 edition. His stage victory was an imposing one, as he went soloed from a talented group of riders after 90km to roll in 7-minutes ahead of Former Australian U23 XC Champion Mark Frendo and Antonio Ortiz of Spain.
Stage 1 complete! Photo ©: Erik Peterson
In the Elite Women’s field, Catherine Williamson (Bizhub-Energas) marked her intent for the race with a huge win. The 2013 ABSA Cape Epic Winner, completed the stage 30 minutes ahead of her nearest rivals, American Sonya Looney (Topeak Ergon) and Erin Greene (Endura NZ) of New Zealand.
Stage Two will take the racers 125km to the Khan Khentii area on the bank of the Tuul River via the Zamt Hills to Jalman Camp.
For stage, team and classification results, click here.