BikingMan Brazil 2023 – Day 3: Andre Froes takes the victory

The third day of BikingMan Brazil 2023 was marked by the stunning victory of Andre Froes, who crossed the finish line with a record time. This long and arduous route challenged participants with its intense climbs, changing weather, and accumulated fatigue. This day proved pivotal for all participants, especially Froes, who not only overcame numerous obstacles but also set a new record for this stage of the Ultracycling Championship.

A restless night at Checkpoint 2 – efforts never cease

The night at checkpoint 2, located at kilometer 614, was anything but restful for the ultracyclists engaged in this grueling race. The top 10 athletes began arriving one by one, each quickly refueling before setting off again toward the final stages. Arrivals continued throughout the night, highlighting the determination of competitors who refused to give in to fatigue.

While most riders prepared for the day ahead, the leaders had already departed in the early morning hours, ready to tackle the day’s challenges. The climbs offered no respite, but for the lucky ones, a stunning sunrise over Paraty provided a brief moment of comfort amidst this demanding journey. However, to witness this natural spectacle, cyclists first had to conquer one of the most challenging sections of the course: a 17 km ascent with an average gradient of around 9%.

The paraty ascent – A historic and physical challenge

The Paraty climb is not only daunting due to its physical demands. As Axel explains, it also holds significant historical weight. This region of Brazil hosts the Royal Road, a nearly 1,600 km route that played a critical role during the 18th-century gold rush. At that time, this route allowed the Portuguese to export gold and diamonds to the crown. The cyclists’ passage through this historic location adds another layer of meaning to this stage of the BikingMan.

However, for ultracyclists, history is merely a backdrop. What truly matters are the physical challenges that lie ahead. The mountainous terrain and steep slopes require constant, intense effort. Some riders reach the summit exhausted but relieved to have hit a major milestone. For them, the end of this ascent is a hard-earned relief.

Back to checkpoint 2 – Competitors’ relief

While some riders ascended Paraty’s slopes, others arrived at checkpoint 2 in the morning. Among them was Davi, last year’s champion. Unfortunately, this year seems much more challenging for him. He shares his relief at reaching this stage, although he’s far from the position he hoped to be in. This edition of BikingMan has been particularly harsh for the defending champions, as their strength gradually wanes.

“It was incredibly tough this year,” Davi shares upon arriving at the checkpoint. “The heat, the climbs, and now the rain… I didn’t anticipate so many challenges.”

A few kilometers behind Davi, others continue their battle. For many, kilometer 600 marks a turning point. As the weather shifts and rain begins to fall, the race’s atmosphere changes. After days of punishing heat, the arrival of rain presents a new challenge for the participants. Roads that were once dry become suddenly slick and more challenging to navigate.

A respite in the valley – Before the final leg of the race

Cyclists approaching kilometer 610 find a much-needed moment of respite. This region, nestled between two mountain ranges – the Serra do Mar and the Serra da Mantiqueira – offers breathtaking landscapes and temporary refuge for the weary cyclists. These mountain ranges stretch for hundreds of kilometers, reaching altitudes of up to 2,700 meters, creating ideal conditions for adventure seekers, though they are daunting for those conserving energy.

The Serra da Mantiqueira is especially significant on the route, as it leads to the highest point of BikingMan Brazil, Itatiaia National Park, located at 2,450 meters altitude. Before reaching this landmark, cyclists take advantage of the valley to refuel and rest at checkpoint 2, gaining the strength they need for the final leg of the race.

Andre Froes in the lead – The race to victory

In the early afternoon, Andre Froes continues to dominate the race. He has created a considerable gap overnight, pulling several hours ahead of his competitors. His exceptional performance shows his determination to win this year. However, even for a leader as strong as Andre, the last kilometers of the route are no easy feat.

The final 40 kilometers are particularly tough for Andre. The challenging terrain and accumulated fatigue begin to slow him down.

“I felt my legs give way towards the end. Every pedal stroke became a battle,” Andre shares, exhausted, during his final refueling.

As he nears the end, Andre takes over two hours to cover the last 10 kilometers to Santo Antônio do Pinhal. But by 5 pm, he finally crosses the finish line, ending his ordeal. With a time of 60 hours, Andre Froes sets a new record for the BikingMan Brazil event.

A stunning victory for Andre Froes

For Andre Froes, this victory is a crowning achievement. After three attempts at BikingMan Brazil, he finally realizes his goal: winning the race with a significant margin over his competitors. His incredible performance confirms him as one of the best ultracyclists of this edition. The smile on his face as he crosses the finish line says it all.

“This is a dream come true,” Andre declares after his victory. “It was one of the hardest courses I’ve done, but I’m proud to have pushed myself.”

A podium in sight for the other leaders

Behind him, the podium is taking shape. Juliano Gehrke is well on his way to finishing second, as he has in the past two editions. For the third consecutive year, he demonstrates remarkable consistency but remains in Andre Froes’s shadow. Julian Manrique, meanwhile, holds firmly in third place. Both are expected to cross the finish line during the night, ending their own race against the clock.

Thus ends the third day of BikingMan Brazil 2023, with Andre Froes’s spectacular victory and a podium beginning to take form. This day was marked by endurance, perseverance, and exceptional performances amid unpredictable weather conditions.

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