BikingMan Origine Corsica 2024: a defining third day of racing

Welcome to the recap of day three of the BikingMan Origine Corsica 2024. This day marked a turning point, as the first participants crossed the finish line on Biguglia Beach at Camping San Damiano. As you may have seen on social media, Rémy Borrion won the race. Let’s dive into the key moments of the day.

Early arrivals at checkpoint 3 in Zicavo

The day began with early arrivals at checkpoint 3 in Zicavo after a grueling night for many participants. Cyclists showed signs of exhaustion but remained determined to push on despite accumulated fatigue and soreness.

“Tough! Aching everywhere! Sore… I need a good nap. I haven’t slept yet, so I’ll give it a try,” shared Steven Leroy, one of the cyclists in search of rest.

Sébastien Motte added:

“I don’t remember the names of the passes, but Bavella? Is that it? Man, that hurt. I suffered (nervous laugh). It was brutal! And riding alone at night, it feels endless!”

Rémy Borrion surges toward victory

While most participants struggled to keep going, Rémy continued widening the gap with his pursuers. Around kilometer 915, he was already in the Castagniccia region, known for its vast chestnut forests, with about a 30-km lead over his closest competitor, Jonathan Chassin.

Rémy confided:

“I’m feeling good, but I’m a bit wary of the big climb at the end. I should have enough of a lead,” showing how he maintained his calm and strategy despite the fatigue.

The chase pack in the Castagniccia

Meanwhile, Rémy Borrion’s pursuers were about 100 km behind. With varied levels of energy, participants shared their thoughts on the tough race.

“It’s better now than an hour ago, but it’s hard to stay awake, even with multiple micro-naps,” said Thomas Dupin, revealing the ups and downs of the challenge.

Rémy Borrion’s triumphant finish in Biguglia

In the early afternoon, Rémy crossed the finish line in Biguglia, claiming his third BikingMan victory. He completed the race in less than 50 hours—a remarkable achievement.

“I’m happy to win one, and I loved the scenery I passed along the way. Well, except for the nighttime views… (smiles)” Rémy shared upon arrival, visibly moved and satisfied with his journey.

Jonathan Chassin, who took second place, also expressed his admiration for the Corsican landscapes and his satisfaction with this adventure.

Other finishes and the first duo team

The arrivals continued, completing the race’s top 10, including the first pair of ultracyclists, Anthony Duriani and Nicolas Philippi, who crossed the finish line together.

Col de Bavella: a monumental challenge for cyclists

To close the day, we looked back at kilometer 700, atop Col de Bavella, one of the course’s major challenges. Participants shared the difficulty of the climb, especially with the intense heat that made the ascent even more grueling.

“My GPS showed 38°C in the mid-afternoon; it was hell,” said Aurélien Rivard, highlighting how this pass remains a formidable challenge.

Day three of BikingMan Origine Corsica highlighted the determination and strength of all participants, particularly Rémy Borrion, who delivered an impressive performance. The final rankings are starting to take shape, with the top 10 now established: Rémy Borrion in first, followed by Jonathan Chassin and Grégory Cassini.

Join us tomorrow for day four of this extraordinary adventure on the roads of Corsica. Thank you for following the race, and stay connected for the next stages of this incredible challenge.

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