Day 2 of BikingMan Corsica 2023: Night riding, storms, and early podium strategies

The second day of BikingMan Corsica 2023 began with intense conditions for the 161 ultra-cyclists still in the race. Each participant clung to their goals despite mounting challenges. After an endurance-testing first night, the top 10 riders reached Checkpoint 1 in Porto-Vecchio (400 km) around midnight. Rest strategies varied significantly among the athletes.

“I might take a nap, not sure yet,” hesitated one rider.
For others, like Gautier Paulin, a quick pause was essential:
“I’m going to stretch out, lie on the mat for a micro-nap to recharge, and then I’ll hit the road again.”

Yoan Dercourt takes the lead and reaches Checkpoint 2

Overnight, Yoan Dercourt claimed the race lead. He reached Checkpoint 2 in Porto at kilometer 670 after 28 hours and 58 minutes without sleep—a remarkable performance. His relentless effort maintained a solid pace, despite the risks of extreme fatigue. Meanwhile, Vincent Cockenpot, the leader on Day 1, lost his position during the night. The toll of sleeplessness and maintaining a high pace began to show:

“We’ll see if I can hold on until the end. It’s going to be tough with those chasing close behind.”

Chasing riders juggle refueling and challenges of the day

Other top 10 riders gradually arrived at Checkpoint 2, exhausted but determined. Morning heat and the climb of Col de l’Ospedale—a key 14 km section at 6% gradient, located 410 km into the course—pushed the riders’ limits. One cyclist admitted:

“Yesterday, I was on the verge of quitting—knee pain and nausea—but now I feel better.”

Resilience remained the key for these athletes, who drew on physical and mental reserves to stay in the race.

Weather worsens, intensifying challenges

As the day progressed, conditions deteriorated at Checkpoint 2, with heavy rain and storms pounding the riders. Sudden downpours made the course even tougher. Some stayed optimistic:

“We’ve seen worse in Réunion, but it doesn’t make this easier on such a long ride,” noted one rider.

For others, morale took a hit as stormy weather added risks, especially on slick mountain roads.

Shadow of abandonment looms

As with many ultra-distance races, withdrawals started to occur. Some riders faced mechanical or physical problems, while others were forced to stop due to insurmountable pain.

“I was in good shape physically, but saddle sores forced me to quit. I don’t feel too guilty since I came prepared,” shared Eudine, a participant facing an unfortunate end.

Mechanical issues also plagued Vincent Drenne, who dealt with three flat tires but managed to continue. Such setbacks reminded everyone of the fragility of athletes against mechanical misfortunes, which could abruptly end their journey.

Yoan Dercourt maintains his lead and tackles Cap Corse

With less than 330 km remaining, positions in the lead group stabilized. Yoan Dercourt held onto his lead and entered the iconic Cap Corse region late in the day, determined to push through fatigue.

“I took a 15-minute break at the top of the last climb, just to close my eyes. I didn’t sleep, but it helped,” Yoan said, aware of the need to stay sharp until the finish.

The gap between him and his pursuers remained steady, though he acknowledged that fatigue and the risk of cramps could still shake up the standings.

Vincent Cockenpot, now in second place, admitted doubts about catching Yoan:

“Since last night, I’ve been trying to close the gap, but every push reminds me of my limits.”

Florent Dumas fights for the podium

In third place, Florent Dumas saw his calculated efforts paying off. A methodical approach helped him maintain a comfortable lead over the remaining competitors, securing his spot on the provisional podium. Meanwhile, Anouck Ulrich impressed with a well-managed fatigue strategy, climbing to 12th overall as the lead female. Her performance earned admiration and highlighted the mental and physical demands of BikingMan.

First finishers approach Biguglia

By the evening, the leading riders neared the finish line in Biguglia. Yoan Dercourt seemed set for victory, with Vincent Cockenpot and Florent Dumas securing their positions. While this provisional podium appeared stable, the final hours of the race and unforeseen challenges could still shift the outcome, as is often the case in BikingMan races.

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