The Costa Blanca Bike Race marked an important step in my winter preparation. This season, I chose to change my approach by skipping cyclocross and focusing instead on a training camp in Spain. This UCI Marathon stage race fit perfectly into that plan, with the main goal of getting familiar with my new UNNO HORN bike and building form ahead of the first race block (Chelva, Banyoles and Melgaço).
Starting with bib number 23, the level of competition was particularly high. The race was originally scheduled over four days, but difficult weather conditions forced the organizers to cancel the third stage.
Stage 1 (53 km, point-to-point) started well with a position in the top 20. Unfortunately, an unexpected mechanical issue just after the first technical feed zone forced me to run for nearly 2 km, costing around 25 minutes. I eventually finished 36th.
The following day featured a 13 km time trial finishing at the top of a climb, with extremely steep sections exceeding 32%. I had a good start and was within the top 15 at the intermediate checkpoints. However, a slightly conservative approach on the final climb caused me to lose a few positions, and I finished in a solid 22nd place.
Stage 3 was cancelled due to forecast winds exceeding 90 km/h.
The final stage (41 km) was consistent, riding within the top 20 for most of the race. On the way back to Calpe, the course went through urban areas with some unpredictable traffic. As I was no longer competing for the general classification, I chose to ride cautiously, allowing a small group to come back and pushing me out of the top 20. I finished 22nd on the stage.
I placed 32nd overall, a result heavily impacted by the mechanical issue on the first day.
Overall, this week was very positive. It allowed me to validate my winter training, build confidence on the new bike, and gain valuable race intensity. A good sign ahead of the upcoming races in Chelva, Banyoles and Melgaço.
Thanks to my partners for their support and to everyone who follows and encourages me!