Canada gobble up Croc Trophy
Gruelling mountain bike race reaches finale on Four Mile Beach
A TREMENDOUS feeling of joy has overwhelmed 2017 Crocodile Trophy winner Leandre Bouchard after surviving a pressure-filled final stage.
The Canadian led the 660km race from start to finish, and despite dropping 15 seconds on the final time trial, was glad he did enough to hold off stage winner Andrew L’Esperance.
Bouchard hoisted his bike above his head at Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas after the 30km ride from Wetherby Station.
“I’m really happy that I was able to take most of my lead across the finish line,” Bouchard said.
“Andrew got really strong over the last few days and I really wanted to claim today’s stage myself, but am content with the overall victory, of course. It’s been a real adventure and I really enjoyed this week.”
L’Esperance and partner Haley Smith, who was the top female finisher, were just happy to finish in one piece and had no second thoughts about diving in the water together once the race was done.
The Croc’s “power couple” intend to spend their share of the prize money on a trip to Disneyland.
Four-time Tour de France stage winner Erik Dekker from the Netherlands finished third, just ahead of No. 1 Australian finisher Daniel Beresford.
Elite Men fifth placegetter Mike Blewitt said more Australians should consider tackling the Croc next year.
International Cycling Union commissaire Gerhard Schönbacher said he was content with the feedback of riders during the week and was eager to support the race again.
The trophy returns to its traditional date next year, running from October 13-20.