BONUS - Punched by the Divide: Sveino vs. the World’s Toughest Race

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We’re into July, and the Tour is about to kick off. The Tour De France is the biggest bike race in the world in terms of exposure and the sheer number of eyeballs watching the action but, at just over 3000k, it’s dwarfed by the monster that is the Tour Divide. 

A much smaller spectacle, with supporters watching dots on a screen rather than glossy TV coverage, but at 4000k in length and the added challenge of racing entirely self supported across the entire USA, The Divide is arguably the toughest race going. 

If you caught last month’s Chronicles, you’ll know that Sveino was gearing up to head to the start in Banff, Canada, with 200 or so other crazy riders and tackle this absolute monster of a race. Well, Sveino’s back home after having a stab at the Tour Divide and in this month’s chronicles ep we’re unpacking just what went down along the Continental Divide. 

Sveino gave it his all, and prepped for this race like he was a full time pro again! But, in the world of bike racing, you can be totally prepared and still get thrown a curveball. In the words of Mike Tyson: “Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face.” 

What happened to Svein out there? Well, you’ll have to listen to find out. Sveino, mate, fair play for giving it a crack - what an epic journey. 

The race was eventually won by Swiss ultra racing legend Robin Gemperle who absolutely smoked the record and finished in 11 days, 19 hours, and 14 minutes. That is ridiculously fast - and self supported, too?! Rather you than me, buddy. Chapeau. 

Guys, thanks as always for being a Pelo Member. I really hope you enjoy these yarns between me and old Sveino as much as I do. 

Cheers!

Mitch

P.S. 🚨 Tickets for The Pub to Pub and The Dirty Docker are LIVE so don’t miss out! 🏃🚴