Stage 6 at the Mongolia Bike Challenge

Unfortunately we must report that #58 is a DNF.

After feeling quite beaten up after yesterday’s short stage Martin Wisata decided to put his health first and, for the first time in a stage race, not to compete today. On the upside, he did get the ‘best seat in the house’ – he was out on track in the Race Director’s car, so still right in the middle of the action and reporting to the Press Office at Rocky Trail HQ.

He sent through a message via WhatsApp, reminiscing about the last six days:

“Being a non-finisher at a race sucks…”

“You come here to race, you come here to finish, and not to being able to achieve any of that is not an overly exciting feeling, but it was still an amazing experience and it certainly doesn’t take anything away from that.
But really, you come here with a goal you wanna do stuff, and then none of that happens, so today is not an overly motivational day for me.
But I know, it’s not the end of the world and the next race is already around the corner with the Crocodile Trophy.
So now, I’m looking forward to packing up and coming home.”

As always he remains positive, because:

“After the race is before the race…”

Who’s keen to join Martin at the 10th Anniversary edition of the Mongolia Bike Challenge in 2019? – Read this year’s daily reports to catch the MBC racing bug!

 

Highlight Video Stage 6

(c) Mongolia Bike Challenge

 

Facebook LIVE video feed from Steppe Nomad Camp

Martin looks back at the last few days…

 

Official race photos by Paolo Martelli

The final race start. Watching all other racers roll-out was…. character-building.
Beautiful surrounding scenery.
Standish, Civilis and Ortiz – the race top three on a celebratory ride.
Australian Alex Malone at the front of the peloton.
The final feedzone – a cup of Coke to celebrate! – Antonio Ortiz asked, “Where’s the Champagne?” 🙂
Unfortunately, this horseman guarding the gates of XIII Century Ger Palace waited for Martin in vain.
Martin’s fellow “owayo” buddies on arrival, the Swiss Toro Team.
Emotional arrival.
The final push for the line. What a thrill.

Gallery by Rocky Trail

Being sensible and scoring the best seat in the house for the final MBC Show!
Race Director Daniele takes the lead.
MBC train of pain.
Sun’s out, guns out.
First KOM time bonus classification.

Catch up with what happened so far

Stage 5

Stage 4

Stage 3

Stage 2

Stage 1

Day Zero at the Mongolia Bike Challenge in UB

Getting ready for MBC 2018