Saint Piran secure their first UCI win in 2023

An invitation to participate in two UCI races - Sundvolden and Ringerike GP - came out of the blue, and we couldn't resist the opportunity to race in a new country.

We were familiar with the Scandinavian teams, including Uno X and Team Coop from Norway, Leopard, Coloquick, Restaurant Suri, BHS Bonholm from Denmark, and a few other Continental teams. However, we were uncertain about the Norwegian Elite teams and the numerous Uno X development teams.

The Sundvolden GP, which was 165 km long, had 2800m elevation and a primary 4km climb to tackle twice, with a 4km summit finish climb, as well as many smaller steep climbs. The race started aggressively, and a break of 16 riders formed, with Brad Symonds as our sole representative. The race settled into typical Scandinavian riding, with teams forming and riding in formation to control the pace. This played to our advantage, as Brad, a strong climber, had a free ride ahead to assist Jack and Zeb once they caught up later, while Jack and Zeb had a free ride behind, with no need to chase, and were aided by Will and Lucas.

With 40kms left, a select group closed the gap. The lead-in to the final climb was crucial, which set Jack and Zeb up perfectly. Six riders remained throughout the last km, and two riders broke away, which Zeb tried everything to shut down for Jack. Jack finished a highly credible 3rd, with Zeb in 6th.

The Ringerike GP on Sunday was 178 km long, with a 2km gravel section and plenty of climbing. The finish circuit, which they tackled five times, had a 25% climb that would be critical to our strategy.

Once again, the race started quickly and aggressively, and we were unable to capitalize on any of our moves. We had to rely solely on the second half of Plan A, which required the race to be hard and aggressive on the final major climb before the finish circuits, which we achieved naturally with some serious effort. Three of our riders made the front group, but we lost Adam due to a crash. Fortunately, he was unharmed.

The real racing began once they were on the finish circuit. Jack was at ease and had already decided where to make his move. He went a lap earlier than planned - caught the lone rider from Restaurant Suri, and the two worked together to open up a gap that was unassailable. Jack's natural racing instincts and speed enabled him to win the two-up sprint and secure his and the team's first UCI win of the season.

Sports Director Steve Lampier "The lads committed to the plan every day," he said. "It demonstrates that we can be strong as a unit and win as a unit. It's been a fantastic three days in Norway, a stunningly beautiful country"