Cycling: The Tour of Mattijana (IC/rp thread)

[Mattijana]

Welcome to the IC thread for the upcoming Tour of Mattijana. Here you can find all rp content and the results of each stage as well the overall standings. You can include practically anything in your RPs, reasons for your successes, reasons for your failures, even complicated inter-team back stories. As long as they don't contradict the results scorinated, and is remotely realistic, anything goes.

Stage one details will also be put up and the stage will begin tomorrow with the traditional prologue.

Queries about the makeup of the tournament and OOC comments should all still be directed to me back one the OOC thread.

Thank you for participating and I hope you enjoy the event.

[Mattijana]

Prologue: Individual Time-trial, Burges.

Map:
http://i1066.photobucket.com/albums/u413/burgm/6537CABA-E330-4D5E-B5A2-4A0262A797DE_zpsfc1f9nwu.png

Data:
Total distance: 35.6 km
Lowest point: 51m above sea level
Highest point: 69m above sea level
Predicted winning time: 50:43
Sprint points available?: No

The opening action in the Tour is the traditional individual time-trial which undoubtably provides an opportunity for the General Claaification contenders to get a head start on their rivals. The majority of the route is flat, but climbs slightly in the middle before swiftly looping back into the main metropolitan area and so mainly provides a test of natural time-trialling ability rather than climbing prowess.

The route begins in one of the citiy's most historic districts and takes in some of the best preserved medieval buildings as well as some of the stately homes that were built alongside a few centuries later. It then begins to turn towards the more modern area on the outskirts before moving into the surrounding countryside. It is at this point that the short climb begins which should take a couple of minutes to complete.
At the top, the riders will swing right and descend the hill with higher speeds of at least 40kph expecting to be reached. At the bottom, the roads once again flatten out and turn towards the Triglavski river, using some sweeping turns that should provide a spectacle for the watching fans on the way. The cyclists will cross the river and once again turn right along the North bank and through the main financial district.
After a journey of 4-5 kilometres along this section, the riders will turn back across the river and around the Mattijanadome, the country's national football and sports stadium, before swinging back round towards the finish, after a short stint on the cobbles of the city centre. The finish is located not far from the start.

[Mattijana]

Results: Prologue, Burgges

Rider --------- Team. ---- Time. --------- Split time.
1.Dante Wontner. ----- IBC team. 49:12. ---------------
2.Hjalmar Stormberg.----- RBM. 49:20. +0.08
3.Daniel Michigald. --- Cycle Zadiner. 49:43. +0.31
4.Sir Alexander Stone.---- IBC team. 50:05. +0.53
5.Evan Hopkins. ---- Crux Multinational. 50:10. +0.58
6.Henry Jorvden. CycleZadiner. 50:13. +1.01
7. Mark Young. MDCC. 50:17. +1.05
8. Kenanayahu Ferraro Sauber Racing. 50.22. +1.10
9. Barry Jones. RPC. 50:41 +1.29
10. Edvard Eld. RBM. 50:50. +1.38
11. Aaron Mencliff. MDCC. 50.56. +1.44
12:Ralph Winter. Crux Muiltinational. 51:02. +1.50
13. Silvano Cuccinotta. Sauber Racing. 51.06. +1.54
14. Brian Redwood. Crux Multinational. 51.11. +1.59
15. Philip Fort. IBC team 51.12. +2.00
16. Connor Sharpe. Crux Multinational. 51.15. +2.03
17: Josh Walmesly. Sauber Racing. 51.16. +2.07
18:'Simon Stain. IBC Team. 51.20. +2.11
19:Wiktor Komorowski. RPC. 51.23. +2.14
20: Simon Patenaude. Sauber Racing. 51.35. +2.26
21. Katy Grichard. Cycle Zadiner. 51.36. +2.27
22. Jordan Balanchine. IBC team. 51.39. +2.30
23. Nicolao Ubina. Sauber Racing. 51.48. +2.39
24. Arnar Fjeld. RBM. 51.50. +2.41
25. Edward Quinn. MDCC. 51.59. +2.50
26. Yamato Orion. MDCC. 52.07. +2.58
27: Richard Dail. Cycle zadiner. 52.09. +3.00
28. William Pent. IBC Team. 52.20. +3.11
29. Ulysses Bryant. MDCC. 52.26. +3.17
30. Sami Helgard. RBM. 52.30. +3.21
31. Will Mcconvey. RPC. 52.31. +3.22
32. Erlend Hammertid.RBM. 52.40. +3.25
33. Venessa Haley. Cycle Zadiner. 52.45. +3.30
34. Robert Gelding. Crux Multinational. 52.48. +3.33
35. Micheal Van der Voort. RPC. 53.11. +3.56

OOC: apologies for the slight messiness, I had quite a few RL commitments yesterday, so it should be better for the next stage.

[Welcomzia]

Tour of Mattijana:



Interview with the Gaffer:

After the opening stage of the tour of Mattijana, we caught up with Sauber Racing's manger, Benno Spanagel.

Mr. Spanagel, how would your rate your team's performance this afternoon?

I think we did quite well, considering time trials aren't really our strong point. Our top cyclist, Kenanayahu Ferraro, finished 8th, thankfully not falling too far behind his rivals early on. (+1.10) Also, youngster Silvano Cuccinotta, surprised me, with a decent time of +1.54, he came 13th.

Would you agree that 26 year old Josh Walmesly is a rags to riches story?

Yes, I would. It's my understanding that he grew up in poverty, he only got his first bike at the age of 15. He's a natural though. He turned pro 3 years ago and has shot up the cycling ladder. Now look at him, cycling in the tour of Mattijan. +2.07 is a good time for a lad that is better in the mountains.

Rumours are spreading that Simon Patenaude still hasn't recovered from that injury he got at the Welcomzia Cycling Championships. He finished with a split of +2.26, he's usually better on the sprint. Your thoughts?

I disagree. Under our aid he's made a brilliant recovery. He's fully fit, and although he didn't seem as up to scratch today, he has had no problems in training or in our medical tests.

Nicolao Ubina. He's gotten criticism from pundits who say, at 32, he doesn't still have the legs.

Ok, I admit, he's not the sprinter he once was (+2.39), but he has much more versatility to his game, now. He's a fighter and has a great attitude. He really motivates the team as well.

Congratulations on signing a new two year contract as manager of the team!

Thank you! I have to say there isn't anywhere else I'd like to be right now. We might not be the wealthiest team in the world, but our team has got great spirit and determination. The founders, built it with the legacy of creating a drug free environment, and we plan to stick it no matter what.

What are your objectives for the tour?

Well we'd love to have a cyclist finish in the top five of the general classification and sprint tables, as well as trying to avoid having someone finish in the bottom 5 spots of each.

Ok, thank you so much for speaking to me today. Good luck!

Thank you, we'll try our best!

[Mattijana]

Stage 1 preview: Burgges to Lazov

Total Distance: 155.1km
Lowest point: 28m above sea level
Highest point: 52m above sea level
Predicted time: 4h, 56
Sprint points available?: Yes

The Grand Depart of the Tour of Matijana is definitely one for the sprinters. With the stage mostly running alongside a river and being fairly short in distance, the route is flat and although a breakaway is expected, it should be reeled in with little trouble.

The route begins in the prologue city of Burgges, but soon emerges into the countryside nearby fields and forests. After about 40km, the route winds round the old city of Jezepjan and then continues on towards the finish at Lazar.

[Bjormark]

Today The Tour of Mattijana finally started. Bjormark's own team Royal Bjormark Mail Pro Cycling, also called Royal Bjormark, has been training for this big international event since the end of last month's National Championships back home. The tour started with a 35.6 km long Individual Time-trial in Burges. Bjormark's very own Crown Prince Hjalmar Stomberg V finished with a strong 2nd place, 8 seconds behind IBC team's Dante Wontner.

- It was a tough course, and this is the first international even that any Bjormarkian team has participated in for quite a while, so I was quite nervous as well. But I managed to focus and I am very happy about my results today, says the Crown Prince after the prologue.

As for the rest of Royal Bjormark, Edvard Eld finished 10th, 1 minute and 38 seconds behind while Arnar Fjeld, Sami Helgard and Erlend Hammertid all finished over 2 minutes and 40 seconds behind the prologue winner.

Stage 1 preview: The first stage is a 155 km long stage from Burgges to Lazov. It is a flat stage and will most likely be all about the sprinters. What about team RBM's chances?

- We will try to go for the stage win, although with Hjalmar only 8 seconds behind in the GC, the most important thing for us is to stay in front of the peloton and avoid any accidents, says manager and the King's brother Prince Sverre Stormberg II when asked about the plans for the stage.

I see that in the result list of the prologue, Arnar Fjeld's name is misspelled Arana, just letting you know

[Mattijana]

Stage 1: Burgges to Lazov

Rider--------------------------Team------------------------Time--------split (GC)---Points

1: Daniel Michigald---------Cycle Zadiner--------------4,58:12.7-----same time-----10
2: Wiktor Komorowski------RPC-------------------------4,58:12.9------same time------6
3: Simon Patenaude--------Sauber Racing-------------4,58:13.4------same time-----4
4:Aaron Mencliff------------MDCC-----------------------4,58:14.2------same time------2
5: Connor Sharpe-----------Crux Multinational--------4,58:14.8------same time-----1
6: Barry Jones---------------RPC-------------------------4,58:28.4------same time--------
7: Vanessa Haley------------Cycle Zadiner-------------4,58:30.2------same time--------
8: Kenanahyahu Ferraro---Sauber Racing-------------4,58:31.9-------same time-------
9:'Ralph Winter-------------Crux Multintional---------4,58:33.1-------same time--------
10: Edward Quinn----------MDCC-----------------------4,58:33.5-------same time--------
11: Ulysses Bryant---------MDCC-----------------------4,58:33.6-------same time---------
12: Will McConvey---------RPC-------------------------4,58:35.8-------same time---------
13: Hjalmar Stormberg---RBM-------------------------4,58:36.0------same time----------
14: Edvard Eld-------------RBM-------------------------4,58:36.2-------same time---------
15: Arnar Fjeld------------RBM-------------------------4,58:36.8-------same time---------
16: Richard Dail-----------Cycle Zadiner-------------4,58:37.2-------same time---------
17: Henry Jorvden--------Cycle Zadiner-------------4,58:37.3-------same time---------
18: Brian Redwood-------Crux Multinational--------4,58:38.5-------same time---------
19: Yamato Orion---------MDCC------–----------------4,58:38.9-------same time--------
20: Mark Young-----------MDCC------------------------4,58:39.2------same time---------
21: Evan Hopkins---------Crux Multinational--------4,58:40.1------same time---------
22:'Philip Fort-------------IBC team-------------------4,58:40.4------same time---------
23: Dante Wontner-------RPC-------------------------4,58:40.6------same time---------
24: Micheal Van der Voort-RPC----------------------4,58:41.0------same time---------
25: Sir Alexander Stone--IBC team------------------5,00:09:3------ +1:57--------------
26: Simon Stain------------IBC team-----------------5,00:11.7------ +2:00--------------
27: William Pent----------IBC team-----------------5,00:11.9------ +2:00---------------
28: Erlend Hammartid---RBM-----------------------5,00:20.3------ +2:08---------------
29: Robert Gelding-------Crux Multinational-----5,00:20.7------- +2:09---------------
30: Sami Helgard---------RBM----------------------5,00:21.2------- +2:09--------------
31:Nicolao Ubina---------Sauber Racing----------5,00:21.4------- +2:09--------------
32: Josh Walmesly-------Sauber Racing----------5,00:21.6------- +2:10--------------

DNF: Katy Grichard-----Cycle Zadiner------------------------------ +7:10--------------
DNF: Silvano Cuccinotta-Sauber Racing--------------------------- +7:10--------------
DNF: Jordan Balenchine-IBC Team-------------------------------- +7:10--------------

DNFs were awarded a time five minutes behind the tail as promised. All, riders finishing in the main peloton were awarded the same time as the stage winner.

General Classification:

1: Dante Wontner---------RPC-------------------5,47:25
2: Hjalmar Stormberg----RBM------------------+0.08
3: Daniel Michigald-------Cycle Zadiner-------+0:31
4: Evan Hopkins-----------Crux Multinational--+0:58
5: Henry Jorvden---------Cycle Zadiner--------+1:01
6: Mark Young------------MDCC------------------+1:05
7: Kenanahayu Ferraro--Sauber Racing-------+1:10
8: Barry Jones------------RPC--------------------+1:29
9: Edvard Eld-------------RBM--------------------+1:38
10: Aaron Mencliff------MDCC-------------------+1:44

Points are as dictated on the stage result as this was the first eligible stage for points scoring.

[Welcomzia]

Tour of Mattijan: Burgess to Lazov




Certainly one for the sprinters, I'm going to talk with manager Benno Spanagel after an exciting race.

Hi, Benno. What's your verdict on the end of today's race?

Well, the course was very flat, so a good race for sprinters to assert themselves. And we came very close to clinching the 10 points. Simon Patenaude was just about beaten at the final sprint by today's winner Daniel Michigald (Cycle Zadiner) and Wiktor Komorowski (RPC). I think his impressive showing today should clear away rumours of injury, we hope he can go on to claim the title of best sprinter.

Kenanahayu Ferraro finished safely in the pack, Silvano Cuccinotta however, did not. He was +7.10 behind.

Yes we are slightly disappointed that he was a DNF, but everyone has off-days. He's not a natural sprinter. And it was simply misfortune in my opinion that the breakaway he participated in got caught by the peloton near Jezepjan, close to the finish. From there he ran completely out of energy. But, these breakaways are always risky. Sometimes you can pull them off, this time however we couldn't.

Ferraro was very cautious in this race, always staying in the pack. Will he be your main man later in the campaign?

Yes, he's the one on our team who'll be pushing for the yellow jersey. I gave him orders not to take any risks, we didn't want him losing time. However, he will be more aggressive in the mountains.

Did it worry you when Nicolao Ubina and Josh Walmesly dropped of from the peloton and finished +2.09 and +2.10 respectively?

I was surprised to see them drop off, but their quality riders, and I'm sure they'll more than make up for it. They at least showed a desire to win back more time and they did, as for a while they were three minutes behind.

Overall was today a good or bad day for Sauber Racing?

Despite Patenaude's sprint, it was unsuccessful, as we needlessly dropped a lot of time. However tomorrow's another day and we're ready to go again.

Thank you for talking to me, live on WTS (Welcomzia Television Studio)

My pleasure.

[Mattijana]

Preview:
Stage 2: Hakkina to Aterleke

Total distance: 162.1km
Lowest Point: 55m above sea level
Highest point: 99m above sea level
Predicted time: 5,23...
Sprint points available?: Yes



Today's stage is undoubtably another for the sprinters meaning that for the GC contenders, it will be a case of finishing comfortably in the main pack and not losing any time for their rivals. The main difference between this stage and stage 1 is that it goes gradually uphill to begin with(although not enough to warrant a catagory).

The stage starts in the town of Hakkina, just upriver from Lazov where the previous stage finished. However it soon bends down southwards and starts climbing gradually through the countryside and up to the highest point on the route. From there, the cyclists will run downhill to a lakeside finish in Atterleke.

[Mattijana]

Rider--------------------------------Team----------------------------Time--------------GC split-----------Points

1: Wiktor Komorowski----------RPC-----------------------------5,25:34.2------------------------------10
2: Simon Patenaude------------Sauber Racing---------------5,25:34.3--------same time----------6
3: Daniel Michigal---------------Cycle Zadiner-----------------5,25:34.5--------same time---------4
4: Edward Quinn----------------MDCC---------------------------5,25:34.6--------same time--------2
5: Philip Fort---------------------IBC Team-----------------------5,23:34.7--------same time---------1
6: Connor Sharpe--------------Crux Multinational------------5,25:34.8--------same time---------
7: Sir Alexander Stone--------IBC Team-----------------------5,25:37.4--------same time----------
8: Barry Jones-------------------RPC-----------------------------5,25:37.6--------same time----------
9: Silvano Cuccinotta----------Sauber Racing----------------5,25:38.0--------same time----------
10: Josh Walmsely-------------Sauber Racing----------------5,25:38.0--------same time----------
11: Kenanayahu Ferraro------Sauber Racing----------------5,25:38.1--------same time----------
12: Vanessa Haley-------------Cycle Zadiner------------------5,25:38.2--------same time----------
13: Edvard Eld------------------RBM------------------------------5,25:38.2--------same time----------
14: Hjalmar Stormberg--------RBM------------------------------5,25:38.2--------same time---------
15: Henry Jorvden--------------Cycle Zadiner-----------------5,25:38.4--------same time----------
16: Aaron Mencliff--------------MDCC---------------------------5,25:38.5--------same time----------
17: Mark Young-----------------MDCC---------------------------5,25:38.7--------same time----------
18: Brian Redwood------------Crux Multinational------------5,25:39.0--------same time----------
19: Evan Hopkins--------------Crux Multinational------------5,25:39.1--------same time----------
20: Arnar Fjeld------------------RBM-----------------------------5,25:39.2--------same time----------
21: Sami Helgard--------------RBM------------------------------5,25:39.2-------same time----------
22: Erlend Hammartid--------RBM------------------------------5,25:39.2-------same time----------
23: Dante Wontner------------RPC------------------------------5,25:39.5-------same time----------
24: Will McConvey------------RPC------------------------------5,25:39.6-------same time----------
25: William Pent---------------IBC Team-----------------------5,25:39.9------same time----------
26: Micheal Van der Voort---RPC------------------------------5,25:40.2------same time----------
27: Ulysses Bryant-------------MDCC---------------------------5,25:40.4-------same time---------
28: Robert Gelding------------Crux Multinational------------5,25:40.5------same time----------
29: Ralph Winter--------------Crux Multinational-------------5,25:40.7------same time---------
30: Richard Dail---------------Cycle Zadiner-------------------5,25:41.0------same time---------
31:Katy Grichard--------------Cycle Zadiner-------------------5,25:41.2-----same time----------
32: Nicolao Ubina-------------Sauber Racing------------------5,25:50.0------+0:09----------------
33: Simon Stain----------------IBC Team-----------------------5,25:50.4------+0:09----------------
34: Jordan Balenchine--------IBC Team-----------------------5,25:50.7------+0:10---------------
35: Yamato Orion--------------MDCC---------------------------5,25;51.0-------+0:10---------------

General Classification:

1: Dante Wontner------RPC--------------------11,22:59
2: Hjalmar Stormberg-RBM-----------------+0:08
3: Daniel Michigald----Cycle Zadiner------+0:31
4: Evan Hopkins--------Crux Multinational-+0:58
5: Henry Jorvden------Cycle Zadiner--------+1:01
6: Mark Young----------MDCC------------------+1:05
7: Kananayahu Ferraro-Sauber Racing------+1:10
8: Barry Jones-----------RPC-------------------+1:29
9: Edvard Eld-------------RBM------------------+1:38
10: Aaron Mencliff-------MDCC----------------+1:44

Points Competition:

1: Wiktor Komorowski--RPC-----------------16
2: Daniel Michigald------Cycle Zadiner----14
3: Simon Patenaude----Sauber Racing-----10
=4: Aaron Mencliff-------MDCC----------------2
=4:Edward Quinn--------MDCC----------------2
=6: Connor Sharpe-------Crux Multinational-1
=6: Philip Fort------------IBC Team------------1

[Morrow den]

Tag will get something up in a few.

[Mattijana]

Stage 3: Monleke to Sutmonleke

Stage map:



Total Distance: 149.7km
Lowest point: 301m above sea level
Highest point: 445m above sea level
Predicted time: 5,10...
Sprint points available: yes

Stage three is the Tour of Mattijana's first foray into more hilly territory taking place around the lakes in the foothills of the Mattijanabirjke, otherwise known as the central Alps. Whilst not too stretching, the two categorised climbs could provide an opportunity for one of the GC contenders to attack and gain time on their rivals. Sprint points are still available, but it is likely to be a more all-round cyclist who wins the stage rather than a raw sprinter.

The route begins in the east of the picturesque town of Monleke before winding around the lake named after it. After about 10km, the route turns off the lake and begins to climb the first catagorised climb of the tour, a catagory four which is about 15km long, but quite gradual. The descent is steeper however and, although early in the stage, could enable a brave rider to brake free. The route flattens out at the bottom making its way around the northern shore of Gorjeleke(or lake George) before climbing again, a steeper climb of about another 15km that earns a catagory three label and finishes in the village of Valženija. The descent this time is longer and more gradual however, and brings the riders down towards another lake called Travinjleke. This leads into the flattest part of the route through a valley and up to the Wulfeleke (or Wolf's lake). The final, but potentially crucial part of the stage is the steep but shorter climb before a sharp descent down to the Monleke. After that, any potential breakers have about 15 more kilometres to hang on for before the line.

[Welcomzia]

Tour of Mattijan:



"And we're going over to Julia Sommer who's about to interview Sauber Racing manager Benno Spanagel".

"Yes, thanks Jim, another good day for Simon Patenaude, he came second today, third in the overall point classification".

"Yes, he's definitely the guy we want challenging for the points title. He came agonisingly close today. Again, just about beaten by Wiktor Komorowski. His lead out man was Josh Walmsley, and I just think that Simom went a little too early, and could've waited a couple more seconds. It's a very small mistake, but in cycling it can cost you that tenth of a second that's necessary to win the race. And that's what happened here. Is was a photo finish".

"The next points race could be important though".

"Yes, we need to make ground on the man from RPC. I know it's early days, but we don't want to go any further than six points behind. The next flat race will be a big day for us. We could even leapfrog into first".

"What are your thoughts on Kananayahu Ferraro's general classification position?"

"Right now all we need from him is to stay in the peleton. We'll wait until the mountains when the pack is more split up, that's when Kananayahu will shine".

"Are you worried that Nicolao Ubina failed finish in the pack again?" (+0:10)

"To be honest he's not exactly going to topping the GC. He's the person every team needs. He drops back to get supplies such as water, power bars etc. from the team's car, if necessary. He motivates the team through hard times, particularly during the long, hard climbs, where everyone gets separated. And he knows and accepts this role. He's a very intelligent man, with excellent endurance skills. He'd make a great triathlete".

"As you mentioned Josh Walmsely led Simon Patenaude out of the peloton for the sprint, will this be the case for the whole tour?"

"It'll be either him or Silvano Cuccinotta. They'll be the ones at the front of the peleton near the end, ready to launch Simon for the sprint. Silvano Cuccinotta will usually help Kananayahu Ferraro in the mountain stages, and Josh Walmsely will usually help Simon Patenaude in the flatter stages, such as today".

"Can you give an insight as to what being the team manger during a race is like?"

"It's total madness. Every team has their own car, following the race. We travel with mechanics, in case there's anything wrong with a bike. There's generally five spare bikes on the roof and many spare parts. We also carry enough water and food for our cyclist. I bark instructions over my radio to them. I give them updates on breakaways, stragglers etc. All the while I must keep on eye on the road. TV cars and motorbikes whizz past, and rival team cars are all vying for a spot closest to the action. In fact we nearly got knocked into a ditch by IBC's manager".

"Wow, it must be intense. Thanks for the interview, Benno. I'll get back to Jim in the studio with analysis, right after this advertisement break".

[Welcomzia]

OOC: I'll be away for a week at my grandparents house, and they don't have internet. I'll get back to rping when I return.

[Mattijana]

Stage 3 results:

Monleke to Sutmonleke
Rider---------------------------------Team---------------------Time-------------GC split---------Points
1st: Sir Alexander Stone---------IBC Team-----------------5,25:43.2--------------------------10
2nd: Hjalmar Stormberg---------RBM-----------------------5,26:51.9---------+1:09-----------6
3rd: Simon Patenaude-----------Sauber Racing-----------5,27:03.1----------+1:21----------4
4th: Wiktor Komorowski---------RPC-----------------------5,27:03.3----------same time----2
5th: Connor Sharpe---------------Crux Multinational-----5,27:03.5----------same time----1
6th: Daniel Michigald------------Cycle Zadiner-----------5,27:03.8----------same time------
7th: Silvano Cuccinotta---------Sauber Racing-----------5,27:07.0---------same time------
8th: Barry Jones------------------RPC-----------------------5,27:08.0---------same time--------
9th: Robert Gelding--------------Crux Multinational-----5,27:08.5---------same time---------
10th: Henry Jorvden-------------Cycle Zadiner-----------5,27:08.6---------same time---------
11th: Vanessa Haley-------------Cycle Zadiner-----------5,27:08.8---------same time----------
12th: Edvard Eld-----------------RBM-----------------------5,27:08.9---------same time----------
13th: Arnar Fjeld----------------RBM-----------------------5,27:08.9---------same time----------
14th: Josh Walmesly------------Sauber Racing-----------5,27:09.2---------same time----------
15th: Kenanayahu Ferraro-----Sauber Racing-----------5,27:09.3----------same time---------
16th: Dante Wontner-----------RPC------------------------5,27:09.5---------same time---------
17th: Will McConvey------------RPC------------------------5,27:09.6---------same time---------
18th: Ulysses Bryant------------MDCC----------------------5,27:09.8---------same time---------
19th: Aaron Mencliff------------MDCC---------------------5,27:09.8----------same time---------
20th: Mark Young---------------MDCC----------------------5,27:09.9----------same time---------
21st: Ralph Winter-------------Crux Multinational-------5,28:13.0---------+2:30 (1:10 to peloton)
22nd: Evan Hopkins------------Crux Multinational-------5,28:13.5----------same time--------
23rd: Nicolao Ubina------------Sauber Racing------------5,28:13.8---------same time--------
24th: Sami Helgard------------RBM------------------------5,28:14.1----------same time---------
25th: Erlend Hammartid------RBM------------------------5,28:14.5----------same time--------
26th: Richard Dail--------------Cycle Zadiner------------5,28:14.7----------same time--------
27th: Katy Grichard------------Cycle Zadiner------------5,28:14.8----------same time--------
28th: Brian Redwood----------Crux Multinational-------5,28:15.1----------same time--------
29th: William Pent-------------IBC Team-----------------5,28.55.0----------+3:12 (1:52 to peloton)
30th: Simon Stain--------------IBC Team------------------5,28.55.2----------same time--------
31st: Jordan Balenchine------IBC Team-----------------5,28.55.4------------same time-------
32nd: Philip Fort---------------IBC Team-----------------5,29.00.1------------+3:17 (1:57 to peloton)
33rd: Micheal Van der Voort-RPC Team----------------5,30:15.0------------+4:32 (3:13 to peloton)
34th: Yamato Orion-----------MDCC----------------------5,30:20.4------------+4:37 (3:18 to peloton)
35th: Edward Quinn-----------MDCC----------------------5,30:20.6------------same time

General Classification:

1: Hjalmar Stormberg-----RBM---------16,49:51
2: Dante Wontner----------RPC----------+0:04
3: Daniel Michigald--------Cycle Zadiner-+0:43
4: Henry Jorvden----------Cycle Zadiner--+1:13
5: Mark Young--------------MDCC------------+1:17
6: Kananayahu Ferraro---Sauber Racing--+1:22
7: Barry Jones-------------RPC---------------+1:41
8: Sir Alexander Stone---IBC Team--------+1:41
9: Edvard Eld--------------RBM---------------+1:50
10: Aaron Mencliff--------MDCC------------+1:56

Points Competition:

Wiktor Komorowski: 18
Simon Patenaude: 16
Daniel Michigald: 14
Sir Alexander Stone: 10
Hjalmar Stormberg: 6
Aaron Mencliff: 2
Edward Quinn: 2
Connor Sharpe: 1
Philip Fort: 1

Ooc: Aplogies for the delay, my internet has been a bit sketchy lately which has given me fairly limited access to NS.

[Mattijana]

Stage four preview: Matbirjke to Svetslosk



Stage length: 170.5km
Lowest altitude: 598 metres above sea level
Highest altitude: 1783 metres above sea level.
Predicted finish time: 6,09...

Today's stage is an old fashioned mountain slog with endurance and both climbing and descending ability tested heavily. The climb starts almost as soon as the stage gets going with a long 'hors' catagory climb leading out of the Mattijana valley. Expect this to be the stage where one of the GC contenders makes a break and tries to establishes a lead for themself.

The stage begins in the town of Matbirkje up in the central Alps and travels alongs he valley for five kilometres before turning left out of the valley and immediately climbing the biggest ascent of the day 400m high up to Spodnje Birjke (translated ironically as the little mountain). The riders will be pleased to know that this is followed by a slightly flatter section along the Spodnje valley. That's until the route reaches the town of Liruč where a loopy left turn leads up the second catagorised climb of the day which is a 2-12 km up to jama. Another steeper descent is followed by a trip through the Fassija valley. In the town of Fassija itself, the route turns upwards for the final climb of the stage, a steep catagory one up to Uberasvetsk(high river) at 1783m which is the highest point of the stage. The final descent could still be crucial and leads into Svetslosk (river's end), a pretty alpine town where the stage ends.

[Mattijana]

1 Hjalmar Stormberg (Team RBM)---------------------6:24:00--------------------
2 Henry Jorvden (Cycle Zadiner)----------------------6:24:02--------------+0:02
3 Kenanayahu Ferraro(Sauber Racing)----------------6:24:07--------------+0:07
4 Evan Hopkins (Crux Multinational)------------------6:24:26--------------+0:26
5 Edvard Eld (Team RBM)-------------------------------6:25:13--------------+1:13
6 Josh Walmesly (Sauber Racing)---------------------6:25:25---------------+1:25
7 Ralph Winter (Crux Multinational)------------------6:25:27--------------+1:27
8 Silvano Cucinotta (Sauber Racing)------------------6:25:39--------------+1:39
9 Sir Alexander Stone(IBC Team)----------------------6:26:19--------------+2:19
10 Simon Stain (IBC Team)------------------------------6:26:20--------------same time
11 Dante Wontner (Roche Pharmaceutical cycling)--6:26:20------------same time
12 Mark Young(MDCC)-----------------------------------6:26:21--------------same time
13 Daniel Michigal (Cycle Zadiner)--------------------6:26:22--------------same time
14 Richard Dail (Cycle Zadiner)-----------------------6:26:22--------------same time
15 Vanessa Haley (Cycle Zadiner)--------------------6:26:23--------------same time
16 Aaron Mencliff (MDCC)-----------------------------6:26:24--------------same time
17 Edward Quinn (MDCC)------------------------------6:26:25--------------same time
18 Ulysses Bryant (MDCC)-----------------------------6:26:25--------------same time
19 Barry Jones (Roche Pharmaceutical cycling)---6:26:37--------------+2:37
20 Jordan Balanchine (IBC Team)--------------------6:28:11--------------+4:11
21 Arnar Fjeld (Team RBM)---------------------------6:28:51---------------+4:51
22 Erland Hammartid (Team RBM)-------------------6:29:08---------------+5:08
23 Sami Helgard (Team RBM)-------------------------6:31:38----------------+7:38
24 Micheal Van der Voort (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling) 6:32:30-----+8:30
25 Wiktor Komorowski (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling)----6:32:50-----+8:50
26 Will McConvey (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling)----------6:33:35-----+9:35
27 Katy Grichard (Cycle Zadiner)-------------------6:36:15-----------------+12:15
28 Brian Redwood (Crux Multinational)------------6:36:20-----------------+12:20

Connor Sharpe (Crux Multinational) DNF--------------+17:20
Robert Gelding (Crux Multinational) DNF
Philip Fort (IBC Team) DNF
William Pent (IBC Team) DNF
Yamato Orion (MBCC) DNF
Simon Patenaude (Sauber Racing) DNF
Nicolao Ubina (Sauber Racing) DNF

General Classification:

Hjalmar Stormberg(RBM)--------------23:13:21
Henry Jorvden(Cycle Zadiner)--------+1:15
Kenanayahu Ferraro(Sauber Racing)-+1:29
Dante Wontner(RPC)-------------------+2:23
Edvard Eld(RBM)-------------------------+3:03
Daniel Michigald(cycle Zadiner)------+3:03
Mark Young(MDCC)---------------------+3:36
Evan Hopkins(Crux Multinational----+3:54
Sir Alexander Stone(IBC Team)-------+4:00
Aaron Mencliff(MDCC)------------------+4:15

[Mattijana]

Stage five preview: Svetslosk to the Hollesbirjke.




Total distance: 157.3km
Highest point: 1898m
Lowest point: 1356m
Predicted finishing time: 6,34...

Today's stage isn't quite as nasty as yesterday's overall, however it does have a very nasty summit finish at the appropriately named Hollesbirjke (hell's mountain). It's long and it's steep and that is likely to split the field. For the fron running GC contenders, it's about not losing time whilst for the ones looking to move up the order, it's all about attacking.

The route begins in yesterday's finishing town of Svetslosk, but this time goes South-West towards the first and only other catagorised climb of the day, a catagory 1 into the Kranjski valley. This is likely however to be treated with caution due to what comes later in the stage. After e summit is reached, there is a long period of gradual descent through the valley until the riders reach the western end of Lake Kranj, at which point the descent becomes steeper and twistier. After that, the riders must negotiate a small (4km) flat, urban section through Kranj. After this, the main event gets going as the beginning of the ascent to the Hollesbirjke begins. There are 10 main hairpin turns on the Hollesbirjke and the steepest section is between turns 3 and 6 where gradients of up to 1 in five can be reached. The climb continues a further 7 kilometres after that and finally ends at 1898 metres at the summit.

[Mattijana]

1 Mark Young (Team MDCC)-----------------------------6:23:50---------------------------
2 Hjalmar Stormberg(RBM)------------------------------6:23:57----------------+0:07
3 Sir Alexander Stone IBC Team)-----------------------6:23:58----------------+0:08
4 Sami Helgard (Team RBM)-----------------------------6:24:00----------------+0:10
5 Daniel Michigal (Cycle Zadiner)----------------------6:24:06-----------------+0:16
6 Dante Wontner (Roche Pharmaceutical cycling)--6:24:24-----------------+0:34
7 Vanessa Haley (Cycle Zadiner)-----------------------6:24:35-----------------+0:45
8 Kenanayahu Ferraro (Sauber Racing)---------------6:24:42------------------+0:52
9 William Pent (IBC Team) ----------------------------6:24:52------------------+1:02
10 Edvard Eld (RBM)-------------------------------------6:24:59------------------+1:09
11 Brian Redwood (Crux Multinational)--------------6:26:17------------------+2:27
12 Katy Grichard (Cycle Zadiner)---------------------6:26:20------------------+2:30
13 Micheal Van der Voort (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling)--6:26:22-------Same time
Nicolao Ubina (Sauber Racing)---------------------6:26:22--------------------same time
15 Henry Jorvden (Cycle Zadiner)-------------------6:26:23--------------------same time
Aaron Mencliff (MBCC)------------------------------6:26:23--------------------same time
17 Ulysses Bryant (MBCC)-----------------------------6:30:21--------------------+6:31
18 Richard Dail (Cycle Zadiner)----------------------6:30:51--------------------+7:01
19 Josh Walmsley (Sauber Racing)------------------6:32:20--------------------+8:32
20 Arnar Fjeld (Team RBM)--------------------------6:33:32---------------------+9:44
21 Barry Jones (Roche Pharmaceutical cycling)--6:34:30---------------------+10:42
22 Will McConvey (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling)-6:34:42------------------+10:54
23 Yamato Orion (MBCC)-----------------------------6:35:40---------------------+11:52
24 Connor Sharpe (Crux Multinational)------------6:36.14---------------------+12:26
Evan Hopkins (Crux Multinational)-------------6:36.14----------------------same time
25 Ralph Winter (Crux Multinational)--------------6:36.16---------------------same time
26 Robert Gelding (Crux Multinational)-----------6:36.18----------------------same time
27 Philip Fort (IBC Team)----------------------------6:36:30--------------------+12:42
28 Simon Stain (IBC Team)--------------------------6:36.31---------------------same time
Jordan Balenchine (IBC Team)-------------------6:36.31---------------------same time
30 Edward Quinn (MBCC)-----------------------------DNF------------------------+17:42
Wiktor Komorowski (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling) DNF
Silvano Cuccinotta (Sauber Racing) DNF
Simon Patenaudede (Saber Racing) DNF
Erland Hammartid (Team RBM) DNF

General Classification:

1: Hjalmar Stormberg(RBM)-----------------
Kenanayahu Ferraro(Sauber Racing)-------+2:14
Dante Wontner(RPC)-------------------------+2:44
Daniel Michigald(Cycle Zadiner)-----------+3:12
Mark Young(MDCC)---------------------------+3:29
Henry Jorvden(Cycle Zadiner)--------------+3:38
Sir Alexander Stone(IBC Team)-------------+4:01
Edvard Eld(RBM)------------------------------+4:05
Aaron Mencliff(MDCC)-----------------------+6:45

[Mattijana]

Stage 6 preview: Katosz to Puljanka



Total distance: 158.5km
Highest point: 786m
Lowest point: 302m
Predicted finishing time: 6,07...
Sprint points available?: Yes
Today's stage is a slightly more relaxing one with the route mostly on a downwards slope. The only climb comes early in the stage and is only a catagory four. The stage could well work out as a sprinters stage due to a flat finish.

The route begins in the mountainous town of Katosz on the edge of the central Alps, but soon heads downhill alongside the Juliasava (river Julia). After about 15km, the route turns uphill out of the valley and towards the beautiful setting of Mareličaleke (lake Mariona). The road up is not the longest climb, but does have some steeper sections, however, this early in the stage, the climb shouldn't effect the outcome of the stage other than affect the legs of the sprinters. After that, the route continues downhill back into the Julia valley and snakes gradually downhill all the way into the medieval city centre of the city of Puljanka where a sprint finish is expected.

[Mattijana]

1: Simon Patenaude(Sauber racing)----------------6:13:40--------------------------10
2: Wiktor Komorowski(RPC)-------------------------6:13:41-----same time----------6
3: Edward Quinn(MDCC)-----------------------------6:13:41-----same time----------4
4: Connor Sharpe (Crux Multinational)------------6:13.41-----same time----------2
5: Edvard Eld (RBM)----------------------------------6:13.42-----same time----------1
6: Jordan Balenchine (IBC Team)------------------6:13.43-----same time------------
7: Josh Walmesly(Sauber Racing)------------------6:13.48-----same time------------
8: Will McConvey (RPC)------------------------------6:13.50-----same time------------
9: Ulysses Bryant (MDCC)----------------------------6:13.52-----same time------------
10: Sami Helgard (RBM)-----------------------------6:13.52------same time------------
11: Ralph Winter (Crux Multinational)------------6:13.55------same time-----------
12: Arnar Fjeld (RBM)--------------------------------6:13.58-----same time-----------
13: Hjalmar Stormberg(RBM)-----------------------6:13.58-----same time-----------
14: Philip Fort(IBC team)---------------------------6:13.59------same time-----------
15: Sir Alexander Stone(IBC Team)---------------6:14:00------same time-----------
16: Vanessa Haley(Cycle Zadiner)----------------6:14.00------same time-----------
17: Simon Stain(IBC Team)------------------------6:14.01------same time-----------
18: Henry Jorvden(Cycle Zadiner)---------------6:14.01------same time-----------
19: Richard Dail (Cycke Zadiner)-----------------6:14.02-----same time-----------
20: Kenanayahu Ferraro(Sauber Racing)--------6:14.04-----same time-----------
21: Silvano Cuccinotta (Sauber Racing)---------6:14.04-----same time-----------
22: Aaron Mencliff(MDCC)-------------------------6:14.05-----same time----------
23: Mark Young(MDCC)-----------------------------6:14.06----same time-----------
24: Yamato Orion(MDCC)--------------------------6:14.06----same time-----------
25: Brian Redwood(Crux multinational)--------6:14.08-----same time-----------
26: Erlend Hammartid(Crux Multinational)----6:14.08-----same time-----------
27: Evan Hopkins(Crux Multinational)----------6:14.09-----same time-----------
28: Robert Gelding(Crux Multinational)--------6:14:11-----same time-----------
29: Barry Jones(RPC)------------------------------6:14.15-----same time----------
30: Dante Wontner(RPC)-------------------------6:14.16------same time----------
31: Katy Grichard (cycle Zadiner)--------------6:15.10------+0:54----------------

32: Daniel Michigal (Cycle Zadiner)--------------DNF--------+5:54----------------
William Pent (IBC Team)
Micheal Van der Voort (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling)
Nicolao Ubina (Sauber Racing)

General Classification remains the same as last stage

Points classification:

1: Simon Patenaude: 26
2: Wiktor Komorowski: 24
3: Daniel Michigald: 14
4: Sir Alexander Stone: 10
5: Edward Quinn: 6
6: Hjalmar Stormberg: 6
7: Connor Sharpe: 3
8: Aaron Mencliff: 2
9: Philip Fort: 1
10: Edvard Eld: 1

[Mattijana]

Stage 7 preview: Puljanka to Atlosk



Total distance: 157km
Highest altitude: 364m
Lowest Altitude: 5m
Sprint points available?: No

After a two day break where the riders can recover from their exploits in the mountains, the tour continues with a 157km long stage from Puljanka through some undulating territory and down towards the seaside town of Atlosk. The catagory three climb at Lujan is likely to be pivotal and stamina is likely to be a huge factor after the tough stages in the last few days.

The route begins in last stages finish city of Puljanka, but soon descends through the Pul valley into the woods to the south of the city. This is where the focal point of the stage begins, a long catagory three climb up to Lujan which is likely to decide the stage winner. However, if a group makes it over the climb, it's not all over. There are some lumpier sections closer to the finish which although small, could be a kick start for a breakaway or for someone's legs to give way.
The stage does have some tricky descents in this region and this continues right down to the water's edge in the seaside town of Atlosk.

[Mattijana]

Stage 7 Result:

1 Wiktor Komorowski (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling)-----------6:23:52---------------------
2 Barry Jones (Roche Pharmaceutical cycling)--------------------6:23:52---------same time
3 Nicolao Ubina (Sauber Racing)------------------------------------6:23:56---------+0:04
4 Ulysses Bryant (MDCC)----------------------------------------------6:24:10---------+0:14
5 Edward Quinn (MDCC)----------------------------------------------6:25:04----------+1:12
6 Hjalmar Stormberg (Team RBM)----------------------------------6:25:06----------+1:14 GC
7 Simon Patenaude (Sauber Racing)-------------------------------6:25:25-----------+1:33-----GC+0:19
8 Philip Fort (IBC Team)---------------------------------------------6:25:32-----------+1:40---------+0:26
9 William Pent (IBC Team)------------------------------------------6:25:34-----------+1:42---------+0:28
10 Silvano Cucinotta (Sauber Racing)------------------------------6:25:40-----------+1:48---------+0:34
11 Dante Wontner (Roche Pharmaceutical cycling)-------------6:25:41-----------same time----+0:34
12 Sir Alexander Stone (IBC Team)--------------------------------6:26:18------------+2:26---------+1:12
13 Katy Grichard (Cycle Zadiner)----------------------------------6:26:19------------same time---+1:12
Kenanayahu Ferraro (Sauber Racing)---------------------------6:26:19------------same time---+1:12
15 Daniel Michigal (Cycle Zadiner)--------------------------------6:26:21------------same time---+1:12
16 Vanessa Haley (Cycle Zadiner)---------------------------------6:26:22------------same time---+1:12
17 Ralph Winter (Crux Multinational)-----------------------------6:27:08-----------+3:16----------+1:58
18 Evan Hopkins (Crux Multinational)-----------------------------6:27:16-----------+3:24----------+2:06
19 Brian Redwood (Crux Multinational)---------------------------6:28:06-----------+4:14----------+2:56
20 Simon Stain (IBC Team)------------------------------------------6:29:55-----------+6:03----------+4:45
21 Arnar Fjeld (Team RBM)-----------------------------------------6:31:06-----------+6:14-----------+4:56
22 Aaron Mencliff (MDCC)-------------------------------------------6:35:04-----------+10:12---------+8:54
23 Robert Gelding (Crux Multinational)---------------------------6:43:23-----------+18:31---------+17:13
24 Josh Walmsley (Sauber Racing)---------------------------------6:46:01-----------+21:09---------+19:51
— Connor Sharpe (Crux Multinational)---------------------------DNF----------------+26:09---------+24:51
Henry Jorvden (Cycle Zadiner) DNF
Richard Dail (Cycle Zadiner) DNF
Jordan Balanchine (IBC Team) DNF
Mark Young (MDCC) DNF
Yamato Orion (MDCC) DNF
Micheal Van der Voort (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling) DNF
Will McConvey (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling) DNF
Edvard Eld (Team RBM) DNF
Erland Hammartid (Team RBM) DNF
Sami Helgard (Team RBM) DNF

[Mattijana]

Stage 8 preview: Atlotsk to Revinka (individual time trial)




Total distance:32.6km
Highest point: 21m
Lowest point: 2m
Predicted finish time: 0,41...

Today's stage sees the second and final time trial of the tour with just three stages to go and is the ideal opportunity for someone to gain time with just this and one more realistic chance in tomorrow's stage. Although not a particularly testing route, the stage will test the riders sprint capabilities and the fastest rider and not necessarily the most durable will be more likely to win.

The route begins in the seaside town of Atlotsk (which has a pretty old town, cathedral and several islands around it) and continues along the coast South through some more coastal villages and towards the town of Fazonja, where the main ferry to get to the island national park of Grozaria can be found. After that, it's another trip along the coast before a finish in the regional capital of Revinka.

[Mattijana]

Stage 8 Results:

1 Sir Alexander Stone (IBC Team)-------------------------------1:02:44------------
2 Silvano Cucinotta (Sauber Racing)----------------------------1:02:55--------+0:09
3 Barry Jones (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling)----------------1:03:21-------+0:37
4 Henry Jorvden (Cycle Zadiner)--------------------------------1:03:29--------+0:45
5 Jordan Balanchine (IBC Team)---------------------------------1:03:31-------+0:47
6 Daniel Michigal (Cycle Zadiner)-------------------------------1:03:45--------+1:01
7 Nicolao Ubina (Sauber Racing)--------------------------------1:03:58--------+1:14
8 Wiktor Komorowski (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling)------1:04:03--------+1:19
9 Richard Dail (Cycle Zadiner)----------------------------------1:04:09---------+1:25
10 Venessa Haley (Cycle Zadiner)-------------------------------1:04:12---------+1:28
11 Kenanayahu Ferraro (Sauber Racing)-----------------------1:04:20---------+1:36
12 Edvard Eld (Team RBM)---------------------------------------1:04:32---------+1:48
13 Connor Sharpe (Crux Multinational)------------------------1:04:35---------+1:51
14 Ralph Winter (Crux Multinational)--------------------------1:04:39---------+1:55
15 Simon Stain (IBC Team)--------------------------------------1:04:42----------+1:58
16 William Pent (IBC Team)-------------------------------------1:04:49----------+2:05
17 Brian Redwood (Crux Multinational)-----------------------1:04:58----------+2:14
18 Simon Patenaude (Sauber Racing)-------------------------1:05:14-----------+2:30
19 Will McConvey (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling)---------1:05:17-----------+2:33
20 Evan Hopkins (Crux Multinational)-------------------------1:05:26-----------+2:43
21 Philip Fort (IBC Team)---------------------------------------1:05:41-----------+2:58
22 Hjalmar Stormberg (Team RBM)---------------------------1:05:43-----------+3:00
23 Katy Grichard (Cycle Zadiner)-----------------------------1:05:50-----------+3:07
24 Arnar Fjeld (Team RBM)------------------------------------1:05:54-----------+3:11
25 Dante Wontner (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling)-------1:05:56-----------+3:13
26 Micheal Van der Voort (Roche Pharmaceutical Cycling)-1:06:08--------+3:25
27 Sami Helgard (Team RBM)------------------------------------1:06:18--------+3:35
28 Josh Walmsley (Sauber Racing)------------------------------1:06:45--------+4:02
29 Erlend Hammartid (Team RBM)------------------------------1:07:38--------+4:55
30 Robert Gelding (Crux Multinational)-----------------------1:08:21--------+5:38