We are a little slow in bringing you this news from the weekend, but Nico Vouilloz proves he still has the speed and fitness to win events. Saying that it looks like he was pushed all the way by some Old Skool UK downhillers, Aiden Bishop, Crawford Carrick-Anderson and Glyn O’Brien.

Here’s the French press release:

The Avalanche Enduro took place for the second time at Ae Forest, south of Scotland, that week end.

New rule in 2010 :
A start 2 by 2 was not really appreciated at the announcement, some riders (2
in total!) even cancelled their participation … But the 305 riders who decided to
take part to the event appreciate it, their smilly face proved it !

On Saturday May 8th the Seeding Run (SR) opened the week end in the
afternoon. The best rider was Glyn O’BRIEN (Mad Dog), surprised came from
Mickael THICKENS (mtbskills.eu) who took the second place, he looks in a good
shape for the 2010 season. The third place was for Rupert FOWLER (MBR). But where is Nicolas VOUILLOZ (Lapierre) …7th position, with almost 7 sec late for the day after.

Ladies were about 20 and lead by Carrie POOLE (Crosstrax) for the Seeding Run.

On Sunday, anything can happen, particularly when you start 2 by 2. The organization decided to change a bit the start of each special stage from last year as they needed to be wider. Elbow against elbow – 5, 4, 3, 2,….1 GO ! some used to take starts with several riders others tried to deal with their mate, but at the end the time gave the ranking.

Stage 1, Nicolas VOUILLOZ made the best time in 2min51, second position 2min55 for Glyn O’BRIEN & Rupert FOWLER.

Stage 2, Aidan BISHOP (Rapidracers) did the best time, he was in a good shape as he get 4th position at the Seeding Run.

Stage 3, the rider are all right to say that it is the hardest one even if it is shorter and BISHOP took the lead.

Stage 4, the longest stage but after the report of the rider, finally starting 2 by 2 made a new motivation and even on stage 4 where you have some little uphills, where you could give up if you are alone, with an opponent in front or behind you never want to give up, you prefer to make you heart going up and up …. But no way to stop ! Nicolas VOUILLOZ won it.

Stage 5, he is a winner and he managed to make it, Crawford CARRICK – ANDERSON (CCA SIGNS) won in 2min17 and
with only a 1sec of difference second place was for Nicolas VOUILLOZ.
Stage 6, the deliverance … the downhill specialist 10 times World Champion, Nicolas VOUILLOZ imposed himself with 3min25.

The final result (SR+SS1+SS2+SS3+SS4+SS5+SS6) gave Nicolas VOUILLOZ winner!

He didn’t expect it as he said the race was physical and we have all noted that
the British are now aware of what the Enduro is and how to deal with the
difficulties so race is going to be great for the Megavalanche in Alpe d’Huez!

Full results here.