Batty and Pendrel escaped on the first of five laps and never looked back battling each on the final lap as Batty was able to drop Pendrel and take the victory. Kate Courtney (USA) was in third at around 1:30 behind the leaders when she needed a wheel change and fell to 6th place. Huck took over third place and held on for the final podium spot for her biggest podium.
Batty adds the prestigious title to her resume which builds confidence coming into the upcoming MTB Nationals in St. Felicien, QC on July 18 where she’ll face Pendrel again.
“It was so emotional racing at home with family and friends in the crowd – even some I didn’t know were here. I’m so proud and honoured – it’s never easy racing against Catharine as she’s the World champ,” said Batty.
Pendrel admitted she was a bit nervous coming into today’s race but the fans added positive excitement. “Racing at these Games on home turf is so special – my parents and many others are here as well. You never know how things will go on race day but it’s great to take a 1-2 finish with Emily today,” shared Pendrel. “I was a bit nervous but once the racing starts you settle into a rhythm. It’s so exciting and important for the sport to have such a big event at home.”
“It’s a great day for Team Canada putting two athletes on the podium,” commented Jacques Landry, High Performance Director of Cycling Canada. “We know Catharine and Emily are world-class athletes and today re-affirms their talent and competitive spirit – to have this result on home soil is even more rewarding.”
Results
1. Emily Batty (Canada) 1:27:13
2. Catharine Pendrel (Canada) 0:07
3. Erin Huck (Unites States) 5:23
4. Daniela Campuzano (Mexico) 6:58
5. Raiza Goulao Henrique (Brazil) 8:04
