La Bresse once again delivered a demanding and memorable edition of the Granfondo Vosges, one of the longest and most prestigious events in the UCI Gran Fondo World Series. With a summit finish at the La Bresse Hohneck ski station, riders faced a true test of endurance and climbing ability on challenging roads through the Vosges mountains.
On the tough 175 km course, featuring 2,894 metres of elevation gain, it was Belgium’s John Ross Clauw who proved to be the strongest on the day. Riding at an impressive average speed of 37.85 km/h, Clauw made his decisive move with 25-30km to go, distancing himself from a select leading group and holding on to take a clear solo victory.
Behind him, a group of eight riders battled for the remaining podium places. Dutch rider Emanuel Santi proved fastest in the sprint to claim second place, with France’s Etienne Maillard completing the podium in third. The chasing group, which also included three additional French riders, two Belgians and one German competitor, crossed the line 39 seconds after the winner.
In the women’s competition, riders competed over the 123 km mediofondo, which served as a qualification race. British rider Victoria Stansfield put in a dominant performance, riding solo to victory at an average speed of 32.70 km/h. She opened up a impressive gap of 8 minutes to French rider Paola Ponta, while Germany’s Julia Jehle secured third place, finishing 14 minutes behind the winner.
