August 05, 2019 (Vallee Bras-du-Nord) – After a fun and festive opening night ride in Old Québec from the festive base camp in downtown Quebec City, what could be better than sector Saint-Raymond of Vallee Bras-du-Nord to kick off the 6-day stage race: Quebec Singletrack Experience (QSE).
This route was the perfect mix of what the riders from all over the world will enjoy throughout the week. Mass start form the center of the city heading for a smooth climb in open fields surrounding the city followed by 25 km of amazing and demanding singletrack.
In this incredibly tightly woven network spanning two mountains, the variety and quality of trails is unique. Mount Laura + Le Suisse Mountain = All you can have singletracks!The riders endlessly climbed winding and demanding slopes to then descend through berms, over giant gangways and on perfectly manicured rock slabs. What an exceptional job they have done developing these trails!
The South African Amy MacDowell, 2 times single speed world champ (2012-2015) and 4
th at the 2018 Absa Cape Epic, was the first women at the finish line. 2017 winner, Sarah Kaufman, from Salt Lake City,Utah, finished second. Tomi Miser from Spain, finished 1
st, one second ahead of Marc-André Daigle, defending champion. France’s Theo Gattuso, was third.
Bevin Reith from Toronto Canada and his partner, Gary Swayze, finished 2
nd in the team 80+ category. Bevin has participated to all 3 QSE, twice solo and this year in a duo. When asked why he was coming back every year, this is what he had to say.
“First thing: trails. Second thing: variety of trails. Third: amazing pricing for what is offered. The first year, I was so impressed with the logistic. The team was amazing. It felt effortless and people were joyful, and we never had to wait. Having a permanent base camp where we come back every day, gives you time to visit the oldest and only fortified city in America. It is a major advantage, compared to other races where you are moving every day that leaves you no time to go around and visit.”
Results here.
On Aug. 5 is stage 2 at legendary Mont Ste-Anne.
The QSE singletrack “bar” is open!
