Prologue of BikingMan Origine Corsica 2024

Introduction to the BikingMan challenge in the Alpes Maritimes

The program opens with a warm welcome from host Cédric Ferreira, who introduces viewers to the prologue of BikingMan Corsica 2024, a key stage in the Ultracycling World Championship. This prologue takes place at San Damiano campsite, located on Corsica’s eastern coast near Bastia. The enthusiasm is palpable from the outset, as this event is highly anticipated in the ultracycling community. Two special guests join the program: Axel Carion, founder of BikingMan and a fit new dad, and Rémi Borrion, a BikingMan veteran with six participations, including two victories at BikingMan Oman and BikingMan France. Axel and Rémi, central figures in the event, share their experiences and expectations for this new edition.

The course of the 7th edition of BikingMan Corsica

The prologue focuses on presenting the course for the 7th edition of BikingMan Corsica, described by Axel Carion as a “revamped” route with several new features. This unique course spans a total length of 1,000 kilometers to be completed in 120 hours, featuring a 19,000-meter elevation gain. Axel emphasizes that this is a special edition, as the route was collaboratively designed based on feedback from participants and Corsican residents.

Route reversal and new discoveries

A major novelty this year is the reversal of the course direction compared to previous editions. Cyclists will head counterclockwise, starting northward toward Cap Corse, passing through Bastia. This decision aims to provide a fresh perspective on Corsica and rediscover iconic locations like Saint-Florent and the Agriates Desert. The first major challenge of the course is the Col de la Battaglia, Corsica’s toughest climb, which also serves as the first checkpoint. Next comes the Col de Vergio, the island’s longest climb and another standout feature of this edition. Together, these legendary Corsican passes create a highly demanding course.

Exploring wild Corsica

Axel highlights that this edition showcases Corsica’s untamed and authentic side. After the Battaglia and Vergio passes, riders will traverse the famous Calanques de Piana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This section offers spectacular scenery and challenging ascents. The route dives into remote, unspoiled terrain, where Corsica’s abundant wildlife often shares the road with participants, immersing them in the island’s hidden corners. One of the most feared sections is the Col de Tartavello, a stunning yet grueling climb leading to Checkpoint 2 near the village of Vero. The stretch between CP2 and CP3 remains equally wild and rugged, featuring poorly maintained yet picturesque Corsican roads winding through remote villages.

Spectacular finale and unpredictable weather

The race’s finale is equally impressive. After passing Checkpoint 3, participants will tackle the famous Cols de l’Ospedale and de Bavella before heading to the grand finale: the Castaniccia ridge road. This last section, never used in previous editions, takes riders through a region rich in religious heritage, featuring churches and basilicas, all while offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. Axel and Rémi also discuss Corsica’s microclimates, which add another layer of difficulty. Cap Corse is often windy, the Battaglia Pass can be extremely rainy, and the Vergio Pass is likely to be freezing, especially at night. These unpredictable weather variations demand both mental and physical preparation to handle diverse conditions.

Participant strategies and preparation

Drawing on his experience, Rémi shares his race approach. He plans to sleep very little and aims to complete the 1,000 kilometers in around 50 hours, targeting a top 10 or even top 5 finish. He explains that the adrenaline of the race keeps him awake, and while sleep deprivation is challenging, the competitive spirit keeps him focused. Axel notes that BikingMan Corsica has become a highly popular race, attracting nearly 200 participants annually. Many are newcomers to ultracycling, choosing Corsica for their first BikingMan experience. Despite the course’s difficulty, the event fosters a friendly and supportive atmosphere, creating a familial bond among participants.

Second part of the prologue: New guests

In the second half of the prologue, two additional guests join the program: Aurélie Disdier and Mathias Arlot, newcomers to the BikingMan world. Aurélie, from Nice, is participating in her first BikingMan Corsica and shares her excitement about the challenge ahead. She already has experience in ultra-distance cycling, including a 500-kilometer ride with a 7,000-meter elevation gain over two days. Mathias, who has been training for a year and a half, is equally eager. Living in Paris, he has had to train intensively despite geographical constraints, accumulating thousands of meters of elevation gain in the Paris region. Both share their respective strategies: Aurélie plans for overnight stops with pre-booked accommodations, while Mathias opts for a more flexible approach, adjusting to his race pace.

Participant motivation

Aurélie and Mathias also explain what motivates them to participate in ultra-distance events. Aurélie reveals that her desire to explore new places and push her personal limits drove her to take on this challenge. Although she has some apprehension about night riding, she manages her fears by setting clear goals and maintaining a positive mindset. Mathias, a former smoker, sees ultracycling as a personal challenge and a way to surpass himself. For him, ultra-distance is both a physical and mental adventure, enabling him to push boundaries while discovering new landscapes. Both are particularly excited about the family-like atmosphere of BikingMan and the camaraderie among participants, which motivates them greatly.

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