The Fastest Tour Divide? Ultracycling Bikepacking Race & FKT with BuzzAlong
Source: BuzzAlong Youtube Channel: The Fastest Tour Divide? Ultracycling Bikepacking Race & FKT
Video The Fastest Tour Divide? Ultracycling Bikepacking Race & FKT with BuzzAlong
Video The Fastest Tour Divide? Ultracycling Bikepacking Race & FKT with BuzzAlong YouTube Channel.
The Fastest Tour Divide? Ultracycling Bikepacking Race & FKT
Cycling is a sport that requires a unique combination of physical endurance, mental fortitude, and advanced equipment to conquer. Justinas, the winner of the Tour Divide 2024, is a legend in the ultra cycling scene, known for his incredible performances in some of the toughest races in the world. In this podcast episode, he shares his experience of winning the Tour Divide and achieving the fastest known time of 13 days and 2 hours.
### Preparation is Key
Justinas attributes his success in the Tour Divide to meticulous preparation and learning from past mistakes. He emphasizes the importance of eliminating potential issues with his bike by ensuring it is in top condition before the race. Justinas highlights the need for proper gear and equipment, especially in a race as grueling as the Tour Divide, where riders face extreme weather conditions and challenging terrain.
### Balancing Work and Training
As a nurse in Norway with a busy job and irregular shifts, Justinas has mastered the art of balancing work and training for ultra races. He views his job as a form of training, incorporating night shifts as a way to simulate the challenges of riding at night during races. Justinas demonstrates that with the right mindset and dedication, it is possible to juggle professional responsibilities and athletic pursuits.
### Marginal Gains and Equipment Choices
Justinas’s approach to equipment selection is focused on achieving marginal gains that can make a significant difference in a race like the Tour Divide. From using a skin suit for improved aerodynamics to choosing the right tires and bags, Justinas prioritizes efficiency and performance. His decision to ride with a full-suspension bike and carefully selected gear showcases his attention to detail and commitment to maximizing his speed and comfort.
### The Importance of Rest and Recovery
Rest and recovery play a crucial role in Justinas’s race strategy, with a focus on ensuring adequate sleep and comfort during the Tour Divide. By prioritizing rest and opting for a hydration vest instead of a traditional bladder, Justinas maintains his energy levels and focus throughout the race. His experience highlights the significance of small adjustments that can have a big impact on performance in ultra cycling events.
### Reflecting on the Race
Justinas shares his best and worst moments from the Tour Divide, emphasizing the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions and the beauty of the landscapes he encountered. His appreciation for the support of dot watchers along the route underscores the sense of community and connection that accompanies ultra racing. Justinas’s ability to find joy in the journey, despite the physical and mental demands of the race, is a testament to his resilience and passion for the sport.
### Future Plans and Challenges
Looking ahead, Justinas considers potential future races, including the possibility of tackling the Triple Crown Challenge in the USA. While he values spontaneity and flexibility in his approach to racing, Justinas remains open to new adventures and challenges in the world of ultra cycling. His willingness to push himself beyond his comfort zone and embrace the unknown exemplifies the spirit of exploration and discovery that drives his passion for cycling.
### Conclusion
Justinas’s insights and experiences provide a glimpse into the world of ultra cycling and the dedication required to excel in this demanding sport. His journey from preparation and equipment choices to race reflections and future aspirations offers valuable lessons for aspiring cyclists and fans of the sport. With a focus on continuous improvement and a commitment to pushing boundaries, Justinas’s story serves as a source of inspiration for all who aspire to reach new heights in cycling and beyond.
The opinions expressed in this space are the sole responsibility of the YouTube Channel BuzzAlong and do not necessarily represent the views of CicloNews.
