Susegana, Italy – Bradyn Lange of the United States and Larissa Hartog of the Netherlands each secured solo victories at The Hills Gravel on Saturday, the second round of the Gravel Earth Series. The challenging course, winding 124 kilometers through the picturesque Prosecco vineyards of Italy’s Treviso region, tested riders with nearly 1,915 meters of elevation gain. Lange and Hartog’s performances marked a significant achievement for the Canyon x DT Swiss All-Terrain Racing team, demonstrating their dominance in the burgeoning gravel racing scene.
Hartog completed the course in 5:01:45, finishing 1 minute and 42 seconds ahead of European Champion Erica Magnaldi (UAE Team ADQ). Switzerland’s Elena Hartmann rounded out the podium, coming in 1 minute and 48 seconds behind Hartog. The women’s race saw Hartog establish a commanding lead early on, showcasing her strength and endurance on the demanding terrain. This victory builds on a strong start to the season for the Dutch rider.
In the men’s race, Lange proved equally formidable, completing the 124km course in 4:21:10. He built his winning margin with a daring 40-kilometer solo breakaway, holding off a determined chase from Czech rider Petr Vakoc (SK Velo Praha), who finished 11 seconds back. Célestin Guillon of France secured third place, trailing Lange by 33 seconds.
The Gravel Earth Series is quickly gaining prominence as a key competition in the growing world of gravel cycling, attracting top athletes from various disciplines. Gravel racing, a hybrid of road and off-road cycling, has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, appealing to riders seeking a more adventurous and challenging experience. The series’ focus on diverse terrain and demanding courses sets it apart from traditional road racing.
Hartog’s team celebrated her win on Instagram, stating, “Following an incredible win earlier, Larissa Hartog ran away with it in the women’s race – making it two from two today for Canyon x DT Swiss All-Terrain Racing. What a statement!” Similarly, Lange’s team lauded his performance, posting, “After a gutsy 40km solo breakaway, Bradyn Lange takes the win at The Hills Gravel – securing our first ever victory. A huge ride for a huge moment!”
Race Results
| Category | Position | Name (Country) | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Elite Women | 1 | Larissa Hartog (Netherlands) | 5:01:45 |
| Elite Women | 2 | Erica Magnaldi (Italy) | 5:03:27 |
| Elite Women | 3 | Elena Hartmann (Switzerland) | 5:03:33 |
| Elite Men | 1 | Bradyn Lange (USA) | 4:21:10 |
| Elite Men | 2 | Petr Vakoc (Czech Republic) | 4:21:21 |
| Elite Men | 3 | Célestin Guillon (France) | 4:21:43 |
The success of both Hartog and Lange underscores the growing strength of the Canyon x DT Swiss All-Terrain Racing team. The team’s strategy of aggressive racing and tactical prowess proved effective on the challenging course. The Gravel Earth Series continues next with the third round, scheduled for June 9th in France, where Lange and Hartog will look to continue their momentum. More information about the Gravel Earth Series and upcoming events can be found on their official website.
The demanding course at The Hills Gravel, with its steep climbs and technical descents, required riders to be well-prepared and adaptable. The Prosecco region provided a stunning backdrop for the race, but similarly presented unique challenges with its narrow roads and unpredictable weather conditions. The event drew a large crowd of spectators, adding to the atmosphere and excitement of the competition.
Looking ahead, the Gravel Earth Series promises to deliver more thrilling racing action as the season progresses. With a growing field of talented riders and a challenging course schedule, the series is poised to become a major force in the world of gravel cycling. Fans can expect intense competition and exciting finishes as riders battle for the series title.
What did you think of the results from The Hills Gravel? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with your fellow cycling enthusiasts!
