BikingMan X Morocco 2023 was much more than just an ultracycling race; it was a journey across Morocco’s diverse landscapes, a 1000 km challenge that pushed 87 cyclists to endure extreme conditions, endless climbs, and relentless winds. With a daunting 16,200 meters of elevation to conquer in under 120 hours, the competition gathered top endurance athletes who battled fatigue, mechanical mishaps, and personal limits. As a privileged journalist accompanying them, I’ll take you on this thrilling adventure.
The anticipation at the start (5:00 am – 7:30 am)
The start took place at 5 am in the heart of Marrakech as cyclists completed their final preparations, setting up GPS trackers and checking their gear. The atmosphere was electric, a mix of excitement and nerves. One of the favorites, Maxime Prieur, shared his thoughts:
“It’s my sixth time in a race like this, but I feel strangely calm. I want to experience an adventure, to savor each moment.”
Escorted by the Royal Gendarmerie, the first 40 km were neutralized, giving athletes a warm-up before the real challenges began. Ultra-cycling requires patience and strategy from the outset, something Samir, another participant, highlighted:
“I can’t wait to get going! The waiting is unbearable, but I know the real challenges lie ahead.”
Climbing the Tichka Pass (7:30 am – 10:30 am)
Around 7:30 am, the race truly began as riders tackled the first major climb, the Tichka Pass. Reaching 2260 meters, this iconic pass is a must-cross in the competition. The 15 km climb was the first serious endurance test for the cyclists. At the summit, strong winds and a chilly 10-degree temperature added to the challenge.
By this point, the pack had spread out, with the frontrunners setting their pace. Cycling legend Laurent Jalabert shared his thoughts mid-climb:
“This wind is a fierce opponent. For someone of my build, it’s not ideal. But ultra-cycling is all about adapting to each difficulty.”
Meanwhile, the Belgian cyclists riding in tandem were pushing on despite the initial strain, knowing that the descent toward Telouet would offer a chance to recover. But in ultra-cycling, every second counts, and the slightest slip can cost you dearly.
The first breakaways and checkpoint 1 at Taznakht (10:30 am – 2:30 pm)
Around 2:30 pm, after approximately 238 km covered in 9 hours and 8 minutes, Maxime Prieur reached the first checkpoint at Taznakht in the lead. Despite persistent headwinds and winding roads, he managed to open a small gap on his pursuers.
“I haven’t created the lead I wanted yet, but it’s a start. Now, I just have to stay focused,” he said, visibly satisfied but aware of the long road ahead.
Just behind him, Laurent Jalabert arrived, determined to stay in the race. The Belgian duo, already facing some challenges, maintained an impressive pace despite hauling 27 kg of gear, making each kilometer even more taxing.
Jalabert took a moment to share his thoughts:
“The wind is the number one enemy here. It’s tough on everyone, but it makes progress so much harder. You have to pace yourself and avoid getting discouraged.”
Rocky sections and the first flat tires (3:00 pm – 6:30 pm)
In the afternoon, cyclists encountered the first long stretch of dirt track, a 60 km section of rocky roads that tested both their technique and their equipment. This part of the route is often dreaded by participants as it demands constant vigilance to avoid punctures and other mechanical issues.
Unfortunately, the Belgian tandem hit their first setback. Around kilometer 300, they got a flat tire, forced to make a quick repair under the blazing sun. One of them explained the situation:
“We knew the rocks would be an issue, but we didn’t expect a flat so soon. We lost some time, but that’s part of the game. Now we just need to stay focused and keep going.”
Incidents like this are integral to ultra-cycling, a sport where managing unexpected challenges is just as crucial as physical performance. Cyclists must be both athletes and mechanics, all while maintaining unbreakable mental resilience.
The night, endurance, and the fight for first place (6:30 pm – 10:00 pm)
As the sun set, the leading cyclists prepared to face their first night on the course. For the most experienced, night riding is an essential part of ultra-cycling. Darkness adds a layer of complexity, making each descent more perilous and each climb more daunting.
Maxime Prieur, still in the lead, continued at an impressive pace, while Laurent Jalabert stuck close, ready to seize any opportunity to close the gap. We spoke briefly with Maxime, who said:
“This is when the real race starts. The night will reshuffle the positions. You have to stay sharp; every mistake can cost you dearly.”
Participants knew the night would be decisive, and each rider aimed to pace themselves, keeping a steady rhythm despite the accumulating fatigue. Meanwhile, others took a well-earned rest, regaining strength before returning to the road.
BikingMan X Morocco 2023 was a dazzling display of ultra-cycling’s most demanding and captivating aspects. The athletes, true road warriors, had to summon extraordinary endurance to conquer the stages of this monumental course. At the end of this first day, Maxime Prieur demonstrated his commitment to claiming victory, but the race was far from over, and every participant knew that in ultra-cycling, nothing is ever certain.
The Atlas Mountains, legendary passes, and capricious winds will continue to test the cyclists’ limits, and only time will tell who has the mental strength, strategic acumen, and sheer resilience to triumph in this exceptional challenge. BikingMan X Morocco 2023 has only just begun, and the legend of this edition is still being written.
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