Presentation of the 2026 season with Radio Cyclo

 
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The 2026 calendar

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  Présentation saison BIKINGMAN 2026

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Presentation of the 2026 season

Cet article Presentation of the 2026 BikingMan calendar est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

Discover the 2025 calendar

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  LIVE SAISON 2025 - Les parcours BIKINGMAN

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Dawn on day 5: last climbs and encounters

It’s Thursday morning, sunrise, back at kilometer 780 in the region of Tizi n’Tichka Pass, at 2,260 meters above sea level. Here, participants are still facing a steep ascent, with an atmosphere blending fatigue and determination. Among them are Venezuelan cyclists Daniel and Alfredo, who, despite the difficulty, have managed to keep their spirits high.

Didier Esposito, a cyclist, shared:

“I fell two days ago while stopped on an incline, losing my balance. Since then, every time I stand up, it’s unbearable. I haven’t slept, and even getting on the bike is a challenge.”

Another rider shared his thoughts:

“On day two, it felt like I was on another planet. Now we know we’re on time, so we’re pacing ourselves. Last night, we had couscous, but it’s exhausting because that one really hurt.”

Some cyclists even consider taking their time to enjoy the final moments:

“We’ve got an 80-km descent to the finish. We’d love to stop and have another good tagine like last night, but your flight’s at noon tomorrow, so we’ll have to finish today.”

Others, like Alexandre Bensenval, are savoring these final moments:

“I was dreading this climb, but it’s so beautiful. The sun’s coming up, the adrenaline’s there, and it’s incredible to ride through this landscape.”

Emotional arrivals in Marrakech

Meanwhile, other cyclists are completing their adventure, crossing the finish line in Marrakech. Whether it’s their first or their tenth BikingMan, the emotion is always present on this Thursday morning:

“Even after multiple editions, this race leaves an indelible mark on your heart. The beauty of the landscapes, the encounters, the hospitality… it’s all unforgettable.”

One participant shared his unique experience:

“Axel suggested doing the race only during the day. We followed this advice, and it was the best decision. We were able to enjoy breathtaking landscapes and meet incredible people.”

Another cyclist, Amélie Plennevaux, shared a particularly touching moment:

“Yesterday, I gave my water bottle to a woman walking up from her garden. She looked exhausted and was coughing. She accepted it, thanked me, and I felt a bond form despite our language and cultural differences. It’s a moment I’ll never forget because it was magical.”

Back on the road: the last kilometers

This afternoon on day 5, we go back and forth between the finish line and the road. At 50 km from Marrakech, Denis Becquart, alone on the course, explained:

“My friends couldn’t sleep and left at 11. I woke up at 4. They must be at the finish by now, but it doesn’t matter. I’m moving at my own pace.”

The excitement to finish is palpable, but the road remains demanding.

“I think I’ve arrived… finally! The scenery is magnificent, these extraordinary landscapes, and above all, these incredible encounters. Last night, we met a man who shared his life story. He was happy where he is, and it made us reflect.”

Between effort and solidarity

Solidarity and camaraderie define the end of this adventure. In the starry night from Thursday to Friday, two adventurers, Pierrick and Bastien, crossed the finish line at 2 a.m., exhausted but happy:

“The medal is nice, finishing 1,000 km in Morocco is great, but couscous at 2 a.m. is even better!” Bastien joked.

They reminisced about the race’s highlights together:

“The villages we passed through, the generosity of the locals who offered us tea, the kids who gave us high-fives… it was amazing. You realize how lucky you are.”

The last finisher: Philippe Lebailly, an example of perseverance

Friday afternoon marks the official end of BikingMan X Morocco 2024. One last participant remains on the course: Belgian cyclist Philippe Lebailly. Unfortunately, a flat tire in the final hours prevented him from finishing within the time limit. However, the spirit of the race lives on:

“The first shall be last, and the last shall be first,” as they say. Philippe received a warm welcome from the other participants upon his arrival, celebrating his effort and perseverance.

With emotion, Philippe declared:

“I just wanted to finish, no matter the conditions. I did it. Crossing the line, I couldn’t hold back my tears. It was an incredible effort, and I’m very proud. The last hours were the hardest, but the welcome here at the finish was exceptional. We don’t come here just for the time, but for the experience, and the people—it was something beautiful.”

Race recap and final standings

BikingMan X Morocco 2024 officially concludes, with 103 participants crossing the finish line on time. The winner of this edition is Moroccan Abdellah Hida, who skillfully conquered the Atlas’s terrain and challenges.

To wrap up, let’s take a look at the overall standings for the 2024 BikingMan season after this race in Morocco. The new leader is Gregory Cassini, followed by Laurianne Plaçais and Guillaume de Spoelberch. Note that the final race of the season will take place in Taiwan, with 550 points at stake for the winner. Guillaume de Spoelberch, who has impressed throughout the season, is the only one to have confirmed his participation. He holds his destiny in his hands and could very well win the 2024 BikingMan championship title.

Farewell and see you in Taiwan

And so, BikingMan X Morocco 2024 comes to a close. We hope you enjoyed following this adventure with us. The BikingMan team invites you to Taiwan on Sunday, November 3, for the final leg of this exciting season.

Thank you all for joining us and sharing in these powerful moments of ultra-cycling across Morocco.

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Cet article BikingMan X Morocco 2024: day 5 – the end of an epic adventure est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

Meeting the cyclists: the final stretch of the dirt track

On the morning of day 4, we headed back to the roads near Marrakech, where we encountered cyclists on the final stretch of the dirt track. Testimonials like that of Thierry Tourres highlight the course’s difficulty:

“The last steep climb… tell me who planned it so I can apologize for the insults! But okay, it was steep! The 20% gradients were… interesting when you have no legs left. Thanks anyway!”

We’re at kilometer 850, just 50 km from the finish in Marrakech, in a region featuring the Atlas’s unique topography. Here, cyclists pass by surprising salt flats, an artisanal type of salt production. Salt-rich groundwater is brought to the surface and left to dry in basins, allowing workers to harvest the salt.

Moments of sharing and Moroccan hospitality

On the road, Moroccan hospitality continues to leave a strong impression:

“It was a grocery store, then we just kept buying things. The owner brought out a table and chairs for us. Moroccan hospitality is really amazing,” shared Jérôme Feuillade.

These moments of sharing reflect a human adventure that goes far beyond the athletic challenge.

One participant said:

“I’ve only been training for a month and a half… this is my first time on a bike! I used to ride a motorcycle,” David Estrade told Axel Carion, under the gaze of an intrigued child.

This shows that the spirit of adventure is open to everyone.

Facing hardships, but spirits remain strong

As some approach the end of their journey, they share their impressions:

“Worn out, but it’s okay. It was tough, it was beautiful! Now it’s hot.”

Another added:

“The best moment is when you cross the finish line and have a beer in hand. That’s happiness—a feeling of well-being and fullness. That’s it!”

Further along, at kilometer 720, other ultracyclists still immersed in the adventure face a long day ahead, with the ascent of Tizi n’Tichka Pass at 2,260 meters as the highlight. Despite the heat, spirits are high, as Pascal Cecillon put it:

“Exceptional day, amazing scenery, with a headwind that’s refreshing in this heat.”

The journey and local immersion

Passing through the town of Tighenif at kilometer 828, cyclists experience Moroccan vibrancy. Traffic is dense, and the atmosphere is unique. Edwige Pitel, one of the riders, shared:

“My rear light gave out, and I nearly quit when I fell into a gutter. So now I’m going slow and steady. I don’t want to give up now.”

The human moments continue, as one cyclist described:

“I stopped for a meal of chicken, bread, and the smells, the atmosphere… a real timeless moment, just as I love it!”

One last challenging ascent

The race nears its end, but before that, participants face one final climb, peaking at 2,260 meters. The fatigue is clear, but Aurélie Disdier, with a bit of humor, easily overtakes two participants, saying:

“I put rocks in my bag—I didn’t have enough weight! I bought camels, too. I’ve got the legs and the mindset; I’m good. But it’s almost the end, a final little gift from Axel, a nice little hill!”

Some, who came from afar, like the Venezuelan participants, find the climb especially demanding:

“Today was the hardest day, but discovering Morocco by bike is the best experience of my life.”

Finishers in Marrakech

Through the night, the final finishers arrived in Marrakech. The sense of accomplishment and pride was clear on their faces. One finisher summed it up:

“Morocco is beautiful, but the Atlas doesn’t play nice. It’s a real challenge, and I’m proud.”

Summary and provisional standings

At the end of day 4, over 60 participants have completed the race. An important note: the standings were re-evaluated to account for route modifications. Cyclists who spent long hours on impassable dirt tracks and those who took a fully asphalted route were compared to ensure fairness.

As a result, the standings have changed: Guillaume de Spoelberch is now in 3rd place, Rémi Borrion climbs to 5th, while Belgian Lionel Syne drops to 8th.

The provisional standings are as follows:

1. Abdellah Hida – 42h 26m
2. Gregory Cassini – 45h 44m
3. Guillaume de Spoelberch – 47h 09m
4. Laurianne Plaçais – 47h 42m
5. Rémi Borrion – 50h 39m

Day 4 of BikingMan X Morocco comes to a close, and the adventure continues for the last competitors on the Atlas roads. Stay connected, and join us on Friday for the complete recap of the fifth and final day. Don’t forget to follow the live race coverage on our social media.

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Cet article BikingMan X Morocco 2024: day 4 – the adventure continues est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

The third day of BikingMan X Morocco 2024 was packed with twists and turns, with a major shake-up at the front of the race. Battling numerous challenges under the intense heat of the Atlas, riders arrived at the Oasis Lodge in Marrakech. The day began with a fierce nighttime battle. While Sébastien Pailly held the lead at the end of day two, the night would soon change everything.

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  X 2024 au Maroc - Résumé du jour 3 BikingMan Origine

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A nighttime battle and a new leader

At dawn on day three, the race saw a dramatic shift. Sébastien Pailly was forced to stop in Ouarzazate due to persistent knee pain. This setback cleared the way for Abdellah Hida, a former Moroccan professional cyclist competing in his first BikingMan. Hida seized the opportunity, taking the lead about 100 km from the finish. Pushing through fatigue and endurance limits, he crossed the finish line first, greeted by enthusiastic cheers.

Hida’s first words after his victory were filled with emotion: “It’s all good; the fatigue is behind me. The race is over.”

Midday reflections: well-deserved breaks

While Abdellah Hida sped toward victory, other participants were still hundreds of kilometers from the finish, many around the desert city of Zagora. Known for its intense heat, Zagora was an almost essential stop for riders to hydrate, rest, and share their thoughts.

Bruno Pallierne remarked, “It’s going well; I always find someone to chat with, and the atmosphere is great. We’re having good times, and I’ll gently make my way to checkpoint 3 tomorrow, hoping to reach the finish line.”

Christophe Coulomb added, “It’s going smoothly. We had a good rest near checkpoint 2, got to bed at 9 p.m., and now we’re rolling along, enjoying the scenery.”

The general classification race: Gregory Cassini takes the lead

Following Hida’s arrival, Gregory Cassini and Laurianne Plaçais also reached the finish. By finishing ahead of Plaçais, Cassini took the lead in the season’s overall standings. Though uncertain about competing in the final event in Taiwan, he is currently the frontrunner for the championship title.

Cassini shared a moment from his race, recounting a stroke of luck in finding a place to sleep:

“I had unbelievable luck. I came across a Moroccan guy selling Coca-Cola on the street. I told him I was looking for somewhere to sleep, and he took me to his home. I got to sleep in his living room on a rug, with a pillow and a blanket. It was perfect. Moroccan hospitality—a wonderful surprise and a great memory.”

On his new status as the general classification leader, Cassini added:

“It’s always an honor to take the overall lead. It shows consistency, even though I know I may not hold the top spot by the season’s end.”

Laurianne Plaçais reflects on her race

Laurianne also shared her reflections after reaching the finish:

“It’s a good feeling because I finally managed to enjoy myself without stressing about the result. I often worry about losing time, like on that very technical Gravel section. I kept thinking I’d be caught, but this time, I managed to ease up a bit.”

A heartfelt journey: the story of Matthieu Plessis

Another highlight of the day was Matthieu Plessis’s finish, with a truly moving story. Matthieu shared how a year ago, he had been struck by Guillain-Barré syndrome, an autoimmune disorder that left him tetraplegic. He had to relearn how to speak, walk, and eventually ride a bike.

Today, he crossed the BikingMan X Morocco finish line, accompanied by his brother, filled with emotion:

“A year ago, I had Guillain-Barré syndrome. I found myself in the hospital, 90% paralyzed. For five days, I thought my life was over. Today, I’m here. It’s a bit of a life comeback and a message of hope for anyone going through tough times. In life, you need to tell your loved ones you love them, and then, sometimes, be a little selfish.”

A final stop before the day ends

Late in the afternoon, we circled back to checkpoint 3 in Tighirt, the last open control point. Checkpoint 2 had already closed on this third day. Most riders still in the race were heading toward Ouarzazate, located at kilometer 680, aiming for a final stop to rest before pushing onward.

Participant Tom Nieucel shared his perspective:

“The third day is always when you really get into the rhythm of a long-distance race. I’ll finish today in Ouarzazate, sleep a few hours, and set out to finish tomorrow night.”

Jean-Paul Sachet added:

“It’s the end of the day, and I’m feeling better than this morning. Climbing the pass was tough with the heat, especially after a sleepless night. But I’m okay!”

An emotion-filled, challenging day 3

Due to recent storms that made some Gravel sections impassable, the route was shortened to 900 km. About 90 participants remain on the Moroccan roads, with a deadline of Friday noon to reach the finish line in Marrakech.

Before closing, a significant update: Sébastien Pailly, who had led the race’s start, ultimately had to withdraw due to knee pain.

To track the riders’ progress, don’t forget to follow BikingMan’s social media and Oaka’s live tracking platform.

Join us tomorrow for the recap of day four of BikingMan X Morocco 2024.

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Cet article BikingMan X Morocco 2024: day 3 – a race marked by surprises and revelations est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

Day two of BikingMan X Morocco 2024 was marked by unexpected adjustments and challenges. Near checkpoint 2 in Foumzguid, access to the Oasis Lodge on the far side was blocked due to recent flooding that ravaged the area. As a result, the route had to be modified in consultation with the Moroccan Royal Gendarmerie to ensure participant safety. Riders sometimes had to wade across rivers, carrying their bikes over their shoulders and getting their feet wet to navigate damaged roads.

Sébastien Pailly still in the lead

In the early morning, race leader Sébastien Pailly maintained his top position despite the obstacles. He shared his strategy:

“I took a short 20-minute nap halfway up the second big mountain pass to stay fresh at 2,000 meters on the plateau. I did another here, and now we’ll see how things go during the day. Maybe another nap at checkpoint 3, and that’s it—we’re having fun with the wind! We’ll see.”

Despite facing some tough moments, Pailly continued at a strong pace.

Further back, Guillaume de Spoelberch was briefly overtaken by one of his main competitors. Reflecting philosophically, he remarked:

“It doesn’t matter. The real race is against yourself! The real victory is the sound of the bell at the finish. That’s the win!”

Crossing the atlas: between beauty and challenges

The breathtaking scenery of the Atlas Mountains offered cyclists some respite, though most had yet to sleep. Laurianne Plaçais, also among the leaders, shared her experience:

“We had to cross a broken path, carry our bikes on our backs, and climb up. It was a bit of an adventure with a 1.5-meter climb, but we found our way. The 40-km ascent to the pass was completely wrecked by floods and rain—no sleep, but it felt like we were on Mars up there!”

Thomas Verin added with a slightly strained smile:

“We rode all night, then tackled a 40-km pass with a lot of gravel. After the descent, I wanted to sleep, so I found a little spot, settled down, and then someone saw me and set up right next to me. Well, I didn’t get any sleep…” (laughs)

Arrival at checkpoint 3: new unforeseen challenges

As night fell, the fastest participants reached checkpoint 3 at the Kasbah Tirigouioute Lodge. The course had been significantly altered once again. Due to the flooding, the dirt tracks around checkpoint 3 had become entirely impassable.

Unfortunately, the leading group, led by Sébastien Pailly, had already ventured onto these gravel paths, forcing them to walk sections of the course, which significantly slowed their progress.

The route was subsequently modified for the remaining racers. Starting from checkpoint 2, participants were rerouted onto fully asphalted roads, passing through the city of Ouarzazate before rejoining the route to the Kasbah Tirigouioute Lodge. This decision, made with the Royal Gendarmerie, aimed to prevent participants from running out of water or supplies in remote areas during the night.

Sébastien Pailly holds onto the lead

Despite these trials, Sébastien Pailly arrived first at checkpoint 3 after traversing extremely demanding sections. He shared his thoughts:

“It was tough, eight hours without water. I really had to slow down, or I’d have burned out. We had two major gravel sections—the first was very technical, and the other was just very difficult. We didn’t cover much distance today, but it took a toll. I’m eating now, then I’ll set out, and we’ll see what the body decides.”

Other participants’ perspectives

Other riders also shared their experiences, highlighting the variety of challenges faced on this unique, grueling terrain. Guillaume de Spoelberch described his thoughts:

“Gravel is always painful; it hurts going up and even more on the way down. When you descend, your hands burn, and your back tenses up, especially if the ground is rough. But you often forget the pain and remember the good moments instead.”

Abdel Hida, a participant more accustomed to shorter distances, stated:

“I’ve never felt fatigue like this. It’s even more intense than my usual 300- or 400-km races. Here, it’s 1,000 km straight, and today was really tough. But inchallah, it’ll be over tomorrow.”

Provisional standings

Logistics and route modifications impacted media coverage of day two, but here is the provisional BikingMan X Morocco 2024 leaderboard at the end of day two, including times at checkpoints 2 and 3:

• Sébastien Pailly – 33h21 at checkpoint 3
• Guillaume de Spoelberch – 35h19 at checkpoint 3
• Abdellah Hida – 35h42 at checkpoint 3
• Rémi Borrion – 18h42 at checkpoint 2
• Thomas Leconte – 18h55 at checkpoint 2

Remaining participants continued at their own pace, ready to tackle the next challenges awaiting them on the course.

From unforeseen challenges to determination

Day two of BikingMan X Morocco 2024 showcased the grueling, unpredictable nature of this race. Route changes caused by floods, steep climbs, technical gravel descents, and long stretches on damaged roads put the cyclists to the test.

But beyond fatigue and pain, it was the stunning Atlas landscapes, camaraderie among participants, and the satisfaction of pressing on that marked this second day. Stay tuned for the rest of this adventure, as day three promises to be just as thrilling.

To track the riders’ progress, be sure to check BikingMan’s social media and Oaka’s live tracking platform, which will keep you updated on every move of these ultracycling athletes.

Join us tomorrow for a recap of day three of BikingMan X Morocco 2024.

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Cet article BikingMan X Morocco 2024: day 2 – The battle continues across atlas challenges est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

The ninth and penultimate race of the Ultra Cycling World Championship season, BikingMan X Morocco 2024, kicked off in Marrakech. The official start took place early in the morning, following final preparations and briefings at the Oasis Lodge headquarters. This race is unique, as the route remains a secret until just hours before the start, adding an extra layer of difficulty to the adventure.

Participants prepared for this unique challenge, each with their own goals and motivations. Daniel Mamopulakos, for instance, shared:

“It’s a dream of mine to explore the Atlas Mountains of North Africa with BikingMan and friends who already feel like family.”

Alfred Lasry, whose paternal family is originally from Morocco, expressed his emotions before embarking on this journey:

“This is my first race in Morocco, a country that means so much to me as part of my family was born here. It’s a significant moment because it’s also my first time coming to Morocco.”

For others, the Gravel experience and the unknown terrain represented a major challenge. Laurianne Plaçais confided:

“It’s a bit like usual—I’m stressed before the start, but I can’t wait to be in the middle of the night to steady myself and begin focusing.”

A strong start: the first day of racing

After the countdown, the cyclists set off in the early morning hours. Shortly after, a lead group led by Sébastien Pailly set an intense pace on the Moroccan roads. As temperatures rose, the cyclists began facing the first challenges of this 1,000-km race, including numerous Gravel sections, a tougher terrain than they had encountered in previous races this season.

The course quickly showed its “spicy” nature, with Gravel segments between kilometers 100 and 115, including slopes up to 17%. Gregory Cassini, one of the riders, commented:

“It’s the beginning, and it’s already very selective. If it continues like this, it’s going to be something!”

Celebration at checkpoint 1: a warm welcome and first impressions

The first major checkpoint, located at Café Baba Jamaa at kilometer 153, welcomed the first riders by late afternoon. Volunteers from the El Bararaka Angels association provided a welcome as festive as any major race, with an ambiance reminiscent of the Tour de France, complete with a spontaneous dance performance. This burst of energy gave participants a boost after a long day.

Sébastien Pailly was the first to reach this checkpoint in the late afternoon, about 12 hours after the start, with other competitors close behind. After an intense day, Sébastien shared his thoughts:

“So far, it’s going well. It was a tough mountain pass. There’s still another pass to go, and I’ll try to descend as quickly as possible before nightfall.”

Guillaume de Spoelberch, another rider, expressed his amazement despite the difficulty:

“What a beautiful country! The scenery is magnificent, but it’s tough. I ran out of water over the last 10 kilometers before the pass; it was challenging because I was dry.”

“We just went over a 2,500-meter mountain pass; it was incredible. There was nothing but a few shepherds with their goats.”

An unplanned route change: the impact of weather conditions

One major factor on this first day was an unexpected route change, decided by the organizers in consultation with local authorities. Due to recent floods and an orange alert for heavy rain in the region, the Moroccan Royal Gendarmerie restricted access to certain roads, forcing the organizers to shorten the course by 150 km to ensure participant safety.

This change means the distance between checkpoint 1 and checkpoint 2 is now much shorter. Some saw this as a relief, but it also altered the race strategy for many participants.

The first night battle: a night in the atlas mountains

As night fell, a new phase of the race began: the first night battle in the Atlas Mountains. Sébastien Pailly, still in the lead, continued to set a strong pace. However, the night would reshuffle the standings, as technical descents on Gravel and accumulated fatigue began to take their toll.

Provisional standings at the end of day one

As the first day drew to a close, Sébastien Pailly maintained a comfortable lead. Participants continued arriving at checkpoint 1, with some taking a moment to rest before heading back out into the Moroccan night.

The provisional standings at checkpoint 1 were as follows:

• Sébastien Pailly – 6h35 of racing
• Abdellah Hida – 7h of racing
• Guillaume de Spoelberch – 7h03 of racing
• Guillaume Klein – 7h06 of racing
• Gregory Cassini – 7h09 of racing

Other participants continued at their own pace, knowing that the road to checkpoint 2 would be shorter than expected.

A start marked by tntensity and unpredictability

This first day of BikingMan X Morocco 2024 confirmed the event’s reputation: challenging, unpredictable, and full of surprises. The secret route, Gravel segments, altitude, and changing weather conditions had already tested the athletes. Adapting to the course change, caused by flooding and rain, added a strategic element to the adventure.

All participants have now embarked on the second phase of the race, with the night ahead in the Atlas Mountains promising more twists and turns. To follow the riders’ progress, don’t forget to check BikingMan’s social media and the live tracking platform by Oaka, keeping you updated on every move of these ultracycling heroes.

Join us tomorrow for a recap of Day Two of BikingMan X Morocco 2024, where the battle for victory promises to intensify even further.

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Cet article BikingMan X Morocco 2024: Day 1 – A spicy, challenging race est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

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  BikingMan X MAROC 2023 - Résumé du jour 5

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The final stretch (9:00 am – 12:00 pm)

On this fifth day, around 30 ultracyclists remained on the roads of the Atlas Mountains. By 9 am, a small group arrived in Tanan at kilometer 882, just in time for breakfast. Gaetan Aubry, one of the participants, expressed his determination:

“I tried to stay focused and push forward, telling myself, ‘Force yourself, stay motivated, and finish strong.’ It’s clear now unless my bike breaks – I lost three gears, so I’m a bit worried.”

The desire to finish was palpable, and despite the fatigue, all efforts were directed toward the last 150 kilometers to Marrakech. Others shared their feelings:

“I hurt everywhere, but we’re good. We slept well, had a great wake-up, and we’re feeling great. What an incredible journey. It’s the best life.”

Final efforts and reflections on the journey (12:00 pm – 3:00 pm)

By midday, the finish line was in sight for all. Many took the time to reflect on their experiences and the people they’d met along the way. Marco Bernini described with emotion what had touched him:

“What moved me was the people I saw, those who live with almost nothing in the villages. Every time I passed through these villages, it was incredible. I found the people very kind, especially in the mountains. The less they have, the kinder they are.”

These words capture how much this adventure was marked by the generosity and hospitality of the Moroccan people, adding an unforgettable human dimension to the race.

The grueling final kilometers (3:00 pm – 6:00 pm)

After nearly 1,000 km, the final sections of the course were far from easy. One exhausted participant, with a touch of humor, shared:

“I’m not saying I’m glad to reach the end; it’s beautiful, but it’s hard. I arrived like a baboon with a sore rear, couldn’t sit down anymore.”

The last climbs, including a less-than-10-km ascent to Touama, were challenging, but the cyclists knew it was their final chance to take in the ochre-colored hills of Morocco before the descent into Marrakech. These hills, olive groves, and the majestic views of the Atlas Mountains offered a well-deserved visual reward after all their efforts.

Arrival in Marrakech and celebration (6:00 pm – 8:00 pm)

Marrakech welcomed the final finishers in a festive atmosphere. Baptiste and Thierry, a father-son duo, were the first pair to cross the line together. Thierry shared his joy over this unique experience:

“I had two goals in coming here: to have an adventure with Baptiste in this amazing country and to beat Laurent, our friend. It was wild, a human and sporting experience.”

Arrivals continued throughout the afternoon and into the evening, with each cyclist warmly applauded by their fellow participants. Among them was Georges André, who had already finished the BikingMan in Brazil a few weeks earlier and described switching to “travel mode”:

“I thought, ‘In Morocco, I’ll do the same,’ and from day one, I realized I didn’t have the legs for it. I switched to travel mode, and from there, it was pure joy.”

The last finishers and a sense of community (8:00 pm – 11:00 pm)

The final arrivals continued into the evening. Didier was welcomed by all the participants at 10:50 pm, followed by Bruno and Aline, the last two to finish, 30 minutes later. Emotion ran high, and one of the last finishers summed up his journey with these words:

“It’s a journey, really; we’re just landing now. We’re coming back from this wonderful journey through time, landscapes, challenges… it’s really a mix of it all. We cry, we break, and then five minutes later, we forget everything because we realize life is beautiful, and we’re happy to be here.”

The feeling of fraternity and community among the participants was one of the most remarkable aspects of this adventure, with everyone sharing a piece of their own story.

Closing ceremony and final rankings

The closing ceremony, featuring a show and a celebratory couscous, allowed everyone to mark this exceptional edition of BikingMan X Morocco. Laurianne Plaçais was crowned the 2023 Champion, a well-deserved recognition of her performance throughout the race. Maxime Prieur and Florent Dumas completed the season podium.

Of the 87 participants who started, 65 crossed the finish line within the time limit, while one finished beyond the cutoff, and 21 retired from the race.

The fifth day of BikingMan X Morocco 2023 marked the end of an extraordinary journey through the Atlas Mountains and the rugged roads of Morocco. The 1,000 km of this race were more than just a physical challenge; they were a life experience, a journey of discovery and sharing. Each cyclist pushed their limits, not only to reach the finish line but to discover the very essence of endurance sports and the beauty of this fascinating country.

Moments of struggle, doubt, joy, and connection will remain in the memories of all participants, who discovered that ultracycling is much more than a test of strength: it’s a human adventure.

The next stage of the BikingMan series will be held in Sri Lanka in April 2024. Until then, memories of the Moroccan edition will continue to inspire those who dream of experiencing the ultimate ultracycling challenge.

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  BikingMan X MAROC 2023 - Résumé du jour 4

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The cold night for the last riders (12:00 am – 8:00 am)

In the middle of the night, the last participants braved the silence of the mountains, threading their way through olive trees in an atmosphere as cold as it was serene. Maxime Prieur, the race’s champion, had led the way, and now the ultracyclists followed in his path without stopping. Dimitri Hoebreckx, one of the riders, shared his thoughts:

“Continuing on the bike lets you see places you’d never otherwise visit. I even took a few photos; usually, I never take photos.”

Nicolas Faure, exhausted but happy, added:

“That’s what’s special about this sport: you complain, you hurt, you suffer. But you keep coming back. You come back for the kids on the roadside, the landscapes, the villages you discover. I was battling myself, and giving up would have meant losing to myself… so I won. I fulfilled my goal; I’m happy. That’s it!”

These words remind us that ultracycling isn’t just a physical challenge but also a journey of discovery, where every moment counts.

The extra effort to finish (8:00 am – 10:00 am)

At 8 am, as the sun rose on this fourth day, a small group reached Imilchil after a nighttime descent from Tizi N’Ouano, at an altitude of 2,895 m. The cold was biting, and one cyclist, Bruno Pallierne, shared:

“My feet are freezing, it’s insane. That descent is brutal. I thought reaching the 2,900 m peak would be a relief, but I felt even colder coming down.”

After shedding a few tears and enjoying a well-deserved coffee break, the group regained warmth and courage to keep going. Aline Sievener cheered:

“Okay, after that coffee break, we feel much better now. We fueled up and are ready to burn those calories!”

The final kilometers and the pain of gravel roads (10:00 am – 2:00 pm)

While some enjoyed the warmth by Lake Tislit, others headed toward Checkpoint 3. Despite the accumulated fatigue, one cyclist admitted:

“I’m going to put compresses on my saddle sores, it hurts too much. Every time I stop and get going again, it takes a good fifteen minutes for the pain to ease up.”

The gravel roads continued to challenge the cyclists. Some found shelter for the night in inns or with locals, experiencing Moroccan hospitality that softened these challenging moments. Christophe Girard recounted:

“A guy welcomed me in, just a kind soul. He gave me a blanket. I was freezing, really freezing.”

Gaëtan Aubry added:

“That pass this morning was cold, and then a Belgian in shorts passed me, which hurt my morale. But the landscapes have been stunning from the beginning.”

The approach to Marrakech (2:00 pm – 6:00 pm)

Closer to the end of their adventure, some cyclists were within 100 km of Marrakech. The excitement of nearing the finish was tangible, though it was hard not to be overwhelmed by the majestic sights from their journey. One participant shared:

“It’s hard to believe we’re nearing the end and trying to hold on to all these beautiful images. I’ve been so amazed by Morocco’s diverse landscapes.”

The last major section of gravel, a 10 km stretch under 30°C heat, was the final challenge before reaching Demnat. Here, the ultracyclists admired cactus-covered hills, a distinctive feature of the region.

The final efforts and the feeling of pride (6:00 pm – 8:00 pm)

As the last cyclists neared the finish line, they still had 120 km left to reach Marrakech. William Huron, a tired but determined rider, said:

“There won’t be any surprises on this last stretch. It’s rough, but you get through it. I’m in survival mode, but I’m going to finish, mentally.”

These final efforts took place under the admiring eyes of spectators and organizers, and at the finish line, each participant felt a profound sense of accomplishment.

“Finisher’s feeling? No, a true sense of pride from seeing Morocco in a way I never imagined. It was beautiful, tough, but the people were incredibly welcoming,” Mickael Apter said with a smile.

The final ranking and unexpected achievements

By the end of the day, 33 participants had crossed the finish line, with about thirty more still on the roads of the Moroccan Atlas. Among them, Amadou Kob became the first Moroccan to cross the finish line, placing 14th—a remarkable achievement.

Patrick Lernout also made an incredible comeback from Checkpoint 2, climbing 37 positions to finish 22nd in the race, describing his experience as “a treat in suffering…”

The fourth day of BikingMan X Morocco 2023 was the ultimate test of endurance and perseverance, marking the end of an unforgettable adventure. Each cyclist pushed their limits, discovering not only Morocco’s breathtaking landscapes but also the inner strength needed to finish such a challenge.

With moments of pain, heartwarming encounters, and awe-inspiring scenery, this edition of BikingMan X Morocco will be remembered as a true ultracycling epic, where passion, discovery, and self-transcendence were at the heart of the experience.

The event is now over for most participants, but the spirit of this race lingers in the Atlas mountains, a reminder that ultracycling is not just a sport but a human adventure where each pedal stroke tells a story.

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  BikingMan X MAROC 2023 - Résumé du jour 3

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A grueling night and the battle for second place (11:10 pm – 10:00 am)

The night from Tuesday to Wednesday was the stage for an intense battle between Laurianne Plaçais and Florent Dumas for second place. At 11:10 pm, Laurianne arrived at Checkpoint 3 in Bin El Ouidane (km 785), visibly worn from the altitude but satisfied with her progress. She shared:

“Feeling better than this morning. This morning, I wasn’t doing well… maybe the altitude, we were at 2,000 meters, and I was really struggling. I was wondering how I’d finish.”

Ten minutes later, Florent Dumas reached the checkpoint as well. Tired, he decided to rest a bit before continuing:

“I’ll sleep a bit, take care of my legs, and that’s it.”

With strategies tightening, every minute of rest counted to endure until the end of the race.

Dawn over the Atlas Mountains (10:00 am – 12:00 pm)

As the sun lit up the third day of the race, cyclists further back, particularly a group at Boumalne Dadès (km 495), shared their experiences. After spending the night at Checkpoint 2, they enjoyed a good breakfast before tackling a pass at 2,900 meters.

One participant shared his experience:

“We camped out up there, had an amazing tagine at 2,100 meters, which was pure bliss before getting a good sleep.”

Meanwhile, Philippe Paayer, who had endured a difficult night, recounted his adventure:

“I set out at 2 am, tackled the big pass, then caught a chill on the descent. I had to layer up and wrap myself up, then exhaustion hit hard. I pulled out my emergency bivy and slept on the roadside for half an hour. As the sun rose and the warmth returned, I felt recharged and set off again.”

Maxime Prieur’s victory (12:00 pm – 2:00 pm)

Around midday, excitement peaked in Marrakech. Maxime Prieur crossed the finish line after more than 1,000 km in 55 hours and 16 minutes, winning his first BikingMan. Happy but slightly frustrated, Maxime shared his thoughts:

“Super happy, but also a little frustrated because there were two or three places I’d spotted on the map that I crossed in the middle of the night. I took in so much of the scenery, the route, meeting local people… it’s a shock. We’re not used to this kind of life; there’s such a big difference between life in France and here in Morocco.”

This victory also earned him a spot on the season’s overall podium, an achievement he’s very proud of.

Laurianne Plaçais, the first female BikingMan world champion (2:00 pm – 4:00 pm)

Almost two hours after Maxime, Laurianne Plaçais crossed the finish line in Marrakech, taking second place in 56 hours and 59 minutes. This achievement made her the first woman to win the BikingMan World Championship. Emotionally moved, she shared her feelings:

“I’m happy. I really enjoyed it; the race was an emotional rollercoaster, but at the finish, I could’ve done another lap. It’s a very different experience from all the other BikingMan races. There’s an immersion in the country, seeing the daily life of the people, not just observing from a distance.”

This was her fourth BikingMan this year, a challenge she had set for herself two years ago. She expressed her sense of purpose and satisfaction at reaching her goal:

“I really wanted a comeback. I built my entire season around this. Doing four in seven months is pretty demanding, especially with work and taking care of my daughter. I can’t stand failure; I don’t care about winning, but I can’t stand not finishing.”

Florent Dumas’ impressive comeback (4:00 pm – 6:00 pm)

Florent Dumas completed the podium in third place, after an impressive jump of 18 places since Checkpoint 1. Emotional and satisfied with his performance, he shared:

“Honestly, Gravel isn’t really my specialty, and I hadn’t trained much these last two months. But it was a great race, a blast. I had some doubts about my bike, but it held up wonderfully.”

The final stretch and the finish (6:00 pm – 8:00 pm)

As the top three celebrated their victory, other cyclists continued their journey to Marrakech. At the summit of Tizi N’Ouano at 2,895 meters, Laurent was advancing slowly, exhausted but determined to finish:

“I just want to get over this and sleep at the bottom. Either exhaustion will get me, or I’ll collapse by the end.”

The Moulay Youssef Dam, a significant landmark less than 80 km from the finish, offered an exceptional panorama at sunset. The last kilometers were tough, but the finish line was finally in sight.

Meanwhile, Jeff Kerkov and Christian Orema crossed the finish line, completing the top 5. Christian recounted his struggles on the last big mountain:

“In the last big mountain, really steep, I got lost for an hour because of a faulty GPS.”

Day 3 of BikingMan X Morocco 2023 wrapped up this incredible adventure. Maxime Prieur took the win, followed by Laurianne Plaçais, who fulfilled her dream of becoming the first female BikingMan World Champion. Florent Dumas completed the podium after an exemplary race.

The sun set over the Atlas, leaving 71 participants scattered along the course, with only two days left to reach the finish line in Marrakech. This BikingMan X Morocco was an awe-inspiring display of endurance, strategy, and willpower. Each rider has their own story, proving that ultracycling is far more than just a sport; it’s a personal challenge and an unforgettable human adventure.

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