Jean Ann and Sandra’s Canada Cup #2 Race Report – Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec - May 29

Canada Cup #2 in Baie-Saint-Paul, QC could not have gone better for the Xprezo-Borsao Race Team. Despite torrential downpours throughout the week and race course that resembled a filthy slip-and-slide, all three of the riders finished in the highest possible positions on the podium. Matt topped the elite men’s field, and Jean Ann and Sandra packed a 1-2 punch in the elite women’s race. As the cherry atop a muddy Sunday, both Matt and Jean Ann now hold the Canada Cup leader’s jerseys.

The elite women’s race was fast from the gun, with Catherine Vipond, the leader after the first race, setting a quick pace through the start loop and into the initial single-track. Jean Ann positioned herself right on Catherine’s wheel, while Sandra got caught up in some traffic in the tight and slick trail, and lost contact. The first lap was a bit of a shot in the dark, as the course had changed drastically from the previous day’s pre-ride. Lines that had been perfectly rideable on Saturday had turned into knee-deep mud bogs in places, requiring much dismounting and running.

About halfway through the first lap, Jean Ann was able to get a small gap on Catherine, through utilizing her skills of running with a bike, honed over the winter cyclocross seasons. After the first lap of four (shortened from the original five due to the extreme conditions), Jean Ann had a 30-second lead on Catherine, with Sandra chasing close behind. The order remained the same, until Sandra caught Catherine on the descent of the third lap. With more rain falling on the trails through the course of the race, the terrain literally turned to a river of mud. Many people struggled with mechanical issues associated with hub deep mud, and slippery and blind descents, including previous series leader Catherine.

Sandra and Jean Ann are stoked about their 1-2 podium finish, and are super happy with how well the XTR Dyna-Sys worked for them in the extreme conditions. They are looking forward to checking out the new race course at Canada Cup #3 in Hardwood Hills on June 5.

Thanks to Xprezo's David and Jef for the feed and umbrella-holding in the start box. So pro! :-)

Sandra :)