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Franco Monchiero after departing from the Superenduro fold has been working on one of his passions, Gravel racing. Punta Ala was the second race this year a pilot race adding more experience to the offical Italian Gravel series that will take place in 2017, a few strong riders turned up to get a taste of this niche of Gravel riding.
We were present at the Punta Ala Gravel Road Challenge to take in the atmosphere and racing over three special stages. Between stages there were five rest stops with the best of local food and wine on offer. This was certainly a race for Ladies and Gentlemen along some epic white roads through the country side and coast of Tuscany.
Results
A Stormy day was forecast, the first rain in 3 months, looking out to Elba from the race base on Punta Ala beach.
Franco Monchiero was on hand for this low key pilot event.
Around 60 riders took part, 30 in the competitive category.
Some riders stopped for pictures others pushed hard.
Sun and storms created some epic backgrounds.
With five rest stops, wine was the order of the day.
Ritchey was at the event and spent a lot of time taking in the scenery.
Le Mortelle provided one of the gravel sections flat timed stages.
Gravel bikes with suspension, anything goes in this category.
With some showers the descents could be slippery.
More photo stops highlighted the aim of the competition, serious for those who wanted to and easy going for those who wanted to appreciate the race route.
Men’s Podium.
The Winning Bike.
Race Location : Punta Ala Trail Center
