Everyone commenting about Jim wearing tights, I think it was a few years ago guy (forget his name) finished top 10 wearing straight up pants. More than a couple of brands actually came out with light weight running pants (not rain pants) because it set a bit of a trend. It gets cold in the mountains at night. Smart move by Jim.
While all true, it's all still person-specific. Probably a smart move for Jim given his history, but I also distinctly recall he and Francois topping out the Grand Col Ferret together in 2017 in a freezing drizzle - Jim bundled up in his rain shell looking like a drowned rat, Francois having ditched his shell on the climb to prevent overheating. I've met both and they're built nearly the same (6 feet-ist/rail thin), the difference being Francois born/raised in the Alps, Jim in the Arizona heat. So there's that.
This has to be the best start by the americans. Insane that they even try to cover this race. Great effort by the organizers
In a race that is won in the second half, that sounds more ominous to me than anything. It's not even about staying with the pack in the first half, it's about taking care of yourself. I'm getting worried about the hype getting to some people.
And just like that Kilian is into the lead, Zach chasing, Tom Evans in 3rd with Jim dropping off with Pau running together 4/5. Still all within a couple minutes of each other.
And just like that Kilian is into the lead, Zach chasing, Tom Evans in 3rd with Jim dropping off with Pau running together 4/5. Still all within a couple minutes of each other.
Oops, according to irunfar livetweet top 4 are back together, with only Pau lagging off by 90 seconds.
My money is on Francois D'Haene. If Jornet would prevail at his age, it would be epic.
Bit or Dogecoin? Francois was just seen spectating on course - it would be epically epic for him to head to the start line and reel everyone after spotting them a 40 mile head start. I'm here for it! 🙋