Finding the essence of mountain biking. Team BLink BikeHigh, TEAM 232 is ready to challenge themselves on the world-famous and dramatic trails of the Swiss Alps for the 2019 edition of the Swiss Epic mtb race from 20–24 August. Finding hidden gems and sharing a premium riding experience. The epic race takes place in the picturesque Graubünden region, experiencing the best of Davos, St. Moritz and Lenzerheide over 5 days of intense riding.
This year’s edition features 300 teams from around the world with representation from every continent among the close to 600 participants who will traverse 347km of climbs and descents, including 11950 metres of climbing, through Switzerland’s Graubünden region.
The Swiss Epic is fast becoming a race of choice for mountain bikers from across Europe & the world as it is an Absa Cape Epic qualifier event as part of the Epic Series. The race will be a combination of stunning destinations, breathtaking scenery and a formidable challenge with each stage providing something different for riders to think about and get excited for. Amongst the top five most represented countries, Switzerland leads the way forming the bulk of the field with 180 riders followed by South Africa – home to the famed Absa Cape Epic – with 62 riders. The United Kingdom gets the spot on the country podium with 39 riders, followed by Belgium and Sweden with 36 respectively 30 riders.
Stage 1 begins in Davos featuring the legendary Davos Alps Epic Trail and Zügen Gorge before finishing in St. Moritz.
Stage 2 takes riders around St. Moritz incorporating breathtaking panoramic views of Piz Palü, Piz Bernina and the Engadine. Riders will reach the Laj Alv natural reservoir before enjoying the flowing descent on the historic St. Moritz’s Ski World Cup racetrack.
Stage 3, this year’s queen stage, transitions from St. Moritz to Lenzerheide and reaches the highest point of this stage early on, followed by parts of the 2018 World Championship XC track.
Stage 4 is a looped course in the Lenzerheide region including two climbs on opposite sides of the valley, first to the Charmoin middle station, and later to the idyllic Alp Stätz. Stage 4 ends with a fast descent to the crystal-clear Heidsee.
The Grand Finale takes riders back into Davos featuring pristine single track through a spruce forest at the foot of the Lenzerhorn. Rocky terrain, mountain passes, turquoise mountain streams and amazing views ensue before a flowing trail into the Sertig Valley brings riders back towards Davos for their Swiss Epic finish.
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