The Enduro World Series returns to one of its staple locations this weekend when riders land in Whistler, B.C. The notoriously difficult course, frequently hard enough it’s earned the nickname Crankzilla, is the only consistent North American stop on the EWS circuit.
With the EWS Whistler course now public, including a partial opening of the 1199 trail created in memory of Stevie Smith, we asked a few of Canada’s fastest how they get through a grueling Enduro World Series event.
Jesse Melamed – Rocky Mountain Race Face Enduro Team
Jesse Melamed is a born-and-raised Whistler local, Canada’s top-ranked EWS racer, a past EWS Whistler winner and absolutely on a tear this year. Who better to ask how to tame Crankzilla? The Canadian keeps his advice simple.
“This is a unique enduro, so my advice would be different than normal. We have really good trials here and they picked good ones for the race. They are long and rough so don’t worry too much about line choice and think more about getting comfortable on the main line of the trail. Also, do your due diligence on the transfers and your food and water intake for the race. It’s a big one.”
Jack Menzies – We Are One
After a string of u21 podiums last year, Jack Menzies exploded into his first elite season with a huge 11th place at Petzen-Jamnica behind race winner Jesse Melamed. For Menzies, getting through EWS Whistler is all about managing body and bike – though the pressures on each are different.
“Whistler is one of my favourite places to race but it definitely comes with challenges. Keeping your bike in working order is difficult for any race, but Whistler is extremely hard. The trails are very punishing on tires, wheels and suspension. Keeping your bike in working order is key.”
Racing at home is always exciting for riders. But, when that home race comes with a week-long party, good results require some focus.
“Being at Crankworx and having friends around riding and hanging out makes it hard to say no to doing extra laps of the bike park and jump trails. Focusing on the race and not using energy on park laps is key to keeping your energy up for the race. With having three straight days of practice and racing, your body will definitely feel it. Recover is the best thing you can do to keep sharp and…
Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Canadian Cycling Magazine…