Carr strikes first
Simon Carr of EF Education – EasyPost claimed a sensational victory in the Trofeo Calvia, the opening race of the 2024 Challenge Mallorca series. The one-day event, held on January 24, saw a fierce competition unfold over a demanding 150.1-kilometer route around Palmanova.
Carr, a 25-year-old climber, demonstrated exceptional form and strategy, battling his way to the front in a decisive two-man sprint. His win marks a significant achievement in his career, underlining his potential as a rising star in the professional cycling world. Carr completed the race in 3:48:46, narrowly edging out Aleksandr Vlasov of BORA – hansgrohe, who took the second spot. Brandon McNulty from UAE Team Emirates rounded out the podium, finishing 27 seconds behind the winner.
The race, classified as a 1.1 event on the UCI scale, featured a challenging profile with a cumulative vertical gain of 3,153 meters. This tough terrain tested the riders' climbing abilities and endurance, setting the stage for an exhilarating contest. The average speed of the winner was recorded at 39.365 km/h, showcasing the high pace maintained throughout the race despite the grueling climbs.
EF Education – EasyPost's victory at Trofeo Calvia adds to their impressive list of achievements and highlights the team's strength in one-day races. The top ten finishers of the event included notable names such as Alex Aranburu of Movistar Team and Alberto Bettiol, another EF Education – EasyPost rider, affirming the depth of talent in the professional peloton.
The Trofeo Calvia not only served as a thrilling opener to the Challenge Mallorca series but also provided an early-season indicator of the form and prospects of the riders and teams for the upcoming races. Fans and enthusiasts can look forward to more exciting cycling action as the series progresses, with each race promising to deliver its unique blend of challenges and excitement.
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