Battling lava and legends at The Rift

The Rift is often called the most beautiful gravel race in the world. Iceland’s iconic gravel race puts riders to the test as they race over 200 kilometres through dark lava fields, steep climbs, deep river crossings and wide-open landscapes shaped by glaciers and volcanic force. Starting and finishing in Hvolsvöllur, with a strong international field on the start line, it was another major highlight on the gravel calendar.

Aaron just outside the top 10

Aaron had marked this race as one of his summer goals and delivered a strong performance throughout. In the final part of the race, he found himself on the edge of the top ten. Unfortunately, the cooperation in his group did not go as hoped. In the sprint to the line, his breakaway companion took the better of him. Aaron crossed the finish in 11th place, just short of the result he had worked for.

Nicole fights through setbacks

Nicole did not have luck on her side. A mechanical early in the race prevented her from using her lightest gear, which made the steep Icelandic climbs even more demanding. Later, a puncture 30 kilometres from the finish added to the challenge. Despite everything, she stayed focused and rode to a 13th place finish, showing both resilience and determination.

Joris closes gravel season

Joris enjoyed the race and the beautiful Icelandic nature, but the demanding course brought back old issues. The rough lava fields triggered back problems similar to what he experienced at The Traka, which made it difficult to push through the roughest sections. With The Rift behind him, Joris ends his gravel season and takes a short break before shifting his focus to cyclocross.