BikingMan Brazil 2023 – Day 5: the final relief and the achievement of the last heroes

The fifth and final day of BikingMan Brazil 2023 marked the end of a titanic challenge for participants as they strove to cross the finish line within the 120-hour limit imposed by the race. This was a course filled with obstacles, exhausting ascents, and rugged roads, but for those who persevered to the end, reaching Santo Antônio do Pinhal after so much effort would be a memory etched forever.

Racing against time

With less than 24 hours left in the event, time pressure became tangible for the remaining participants. After nearly 100 hours of racing, each pedal stroke required intense energy. More than a dozen riders were still 200 kilometers from the finish line, engaged in a real race against the clock. Accumulated fatigue and extreme conditions made the effort all the more challenging. Several of them still had to face the daunting ascent to Itatiaia National Park, a 20-kilometer climb particularly dreaded for its rugged terrain and steep inclines.

“At this point, it’s really as much a mental battle as a physical one,” explained Carlos, one of the participants still racing. “Every meter climbed brings you closer to the finish, but at the same time, you’re wondering if you’ll actually make it.”

The ordeal of Itatiaia

The ascent to Itatiaia Park, the final major challenge of the race, proved to be a real ordeal for many.

“This climb is brutal,” recounted Rafael, another participant. “But after climbing this mountain, you feel invincible. It’s one of the most defining moments of my life.”

The 20-kilometer climb was not only a physical challenge but also a mental test. With every turn, exhaustion set in. However, despite the struggle, cyclists were rewarded by the majestic beauty of the park. This natural site is known for its steep cliffs and impressive biodiversity, home to more than 250 bird species.

Laura, who had struggled with neck pain on day 4, found renewed energy on the climb:

“When you’re so close to the goal, you find strength you didn’t think you had. It’s hard, but the scenery, the nature, everything pushes you to keep going.”

Once the descent began, still on rugged paths, cyclists felt relief getting closer. From there, only 170 kilometers remained, mostly on paved roads leading to the city of Santo Antônio do Pinhal.

The final effort toward Santo Antônio do Pinhal

The last difficulty was a surprise for some. Just before the finish, a final 10-kilometer climb awaited cyclists approaching the finish line. This was a hard blow for those who thought the climbs were behind them, but it only made reaching the finish even more gratifying.

“This final climb is the cherry on top!” exclaimed Pedro, who finished the race in the evening. “Just when you think it’s over, they remind you that nothing is easy in this race. But honestly, once at the top, it’s worth it.”

In Santo Antônio do Pinhal, perched at 1,080 meters, arrivals followed one after the other amid the warm cheers of finishers and spectators. A convivial Brazilian atmosphere reigned, with applause, smiles, and hugs celebrating the achievements of these ultracycling heroes.

Relief for the last arrivals

The day’s arrivals continued into the late afternoon, with each cyclist welcomed by their road companions in a festive and warm atmosphere. Laura, who had overcome persistent pain, finally reached her goal. Crossing the line at 6 p.m., she was overwhelmed with emotion:

“I can’t believe it. After everything I’ve been through, being here is just incredible. I didn’t think I could hold on until the end, but I did.”

Later in the night, the last participant, Rafael, arrived at 3:15 a.m., completing the course to the cheers of his fellow adventurers. Greeted by Peter, his friend who had to withdraw at the checkpoint, Rafael became the official lantern rouge of this edition of BikingMan Brazil.

“It’s hard to describe,” said Rafael with a smile, “but it’s probably the best thing I’ve ever done.”

An extraordinary experience

This third edition of BikingMan Brazil lived up to expectations, offering each participant an extraordinary adventure through the ancient mountains of South America. With breathtaking landscapes and titanic physical challenges, this race once again proved to be one of the most challenging on the ultracycling circuit.

“It’s more than a race; it’s an immersion in nature, a unique human experience,” said Denise Henrich, who finished 15th alongside her partner Guillermo Turano, making them the only pair to complete the race this year. “We gave it our all, and doing it together makes this victory even more special.”

Final standings

The women’s category was won by Raquel Farcioli Parisi, who finished 23rd overall. With 51 participants finishing within the 120-hour time limit, this edition of BikingMan Brazil saw an excellent success rate despite significant obstacles. The men’s podium had already been decided, with André Froes taking first place, breaking the course record by completing the 1,000 kilometers in 60 hours. Juliano Gehrke took second place for the third year in a row, while Julian Manrique completed the podium.

The overall world championship standings have also shifted. Georges André Camprubi entered in 9th place, tied in points with five other ultra-cyclists. The competition promises to be close for the rest of the season.

Next stop: BikingMan Morocco 2023

As the curtain falls on this edition of BikingMan Brazil, the Ultracycling World Championship season is far from over. The next event will take place in Morocco, with the 7th and final stage of the season, where the 2023 champion will be crowned. The race is set to start on October 30, and all eyes are now on this decisive event.

With 51 finishers out of the initial 68 participants, BikingMan Brazil 2023 has once again proven why it is one of the most formidable and rewarding races in the world of ultracycling.

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