Finale main square start/finish zone, good for spectators and gelato fans alike. Photo: Victor Lucas

Get Ready – EWS 2019 Enduro Trophy of Nations

After an exciting finish to the EWS season last weekend in Zermatt, racers are already warming up for the Enduro Trophy of Nations in Finale, Italy this weekend. Back to a familiar venue with 5 classic race stages over 59km in one day of racing.

Rocks on SP3 Photo: Enduro World Series
UCI Medals. Photo: Enduro World Series

But this race is a little different – the main event is the “Nations Trophy” for teams of three riders, who must start each stage within 1minute of each other. Their combined times count towards the overall result. As this is now a UCI event, the winning team will each get a rainbow jersey and UCI medal.

Florian Nicolai, Team France. Photo: Enduro World Series
J McKnight in his natural habitat. Photo: Victor Lucas

There is also the “Industry Trophy” for teams of ex-pros, mechanics, staff and media – folks that don’t often get in the spotlight. As well as the”Riders Trophy” for teams and individuals.

Quite a few riders are still recovering from last weeks race. So they will be happy to get away from the high altitude of Zermatt – both in terms of oxygen and the prices for a coffee and a croissant!

Richie Rude, Team USA. Photo: Enduro World Series

RACE SCHEDULE

Friday 27th : Training, all riders.
Saturday 28th : Riders Trophy – Team and Individual
Sunday 29th : Industry and Nations Trophy

https://www.trailforks.com/route/trophy-of-nations-2019/map/

Iago Garay, team Spain. Photo: Enduro World Series
Martin Maes leading team Belgium for practice. Photo: Enduro World Series

Who to Watch?

France have a strong trio with Florian Nicolai, Kevin Miquel & Dimitri Tordo. As well as Isabeau Courdurier, Morganne Charre & Melanie Pugin in the womens category. Of course Australia have Sam Hill fresh from his season win, teamed up with DH pinners Conor Fearon & Josh Carlson. Belgium has Martin Maes, Bart De Vocht & Julien Soussigne. USA have Richie Rude, Shawn Neer & Cody Kelly. The question is – can the fastest rider make up for time lost by his slower team mate?

Nations Trophy Teams
Industry Trophy Teams
Rider Trophy – Team & Individual

LIVE EVENT FEED WILL BE HERE

Sam Hill, Team Australia. Photo: Enduro World Series
Even the media squids are tired after a long season. And all the best rental scooters have been booked out. Photo: Victor Lucas