In a race where gravity alternatively helps and hinders the rider, Remy Absalon (FRA) proved he had the most complete package of skills and fitness to take home first place with a time of 18:52.44.
Fellow Frenchman and legend Nicolas Vouilloz (FRA) was hot on his tail, swooping in eight seconds later with a time of 19:00.76, while Ross Schnell (USA) came in at 19:12.99 for third place.
On the women's side, Anne-Caroline Chausson (FRA) took home first and maintained her lead the entire race with a time of 22.33.12. Emmeline Ragot (FRA) came in second at 22:49.76 and third place Katherine Short (CAN) had a time of 24:00.05.
"This course was very difficult, very technical and steep," says Absalon. “The mass start makes it challenging but I was able to pass Nicolas. The Canadian Open Enduro is quite short compared to the lengths of enduro races in France. There is no time to relax and go slow, you have to go fast the entire time."
Kokanee Crankworx introduced the Canadian Open Enduro to the event roster in 2009 and this year's event attracted 71 competitors. It is the ultimate all-mountain challenge designed to ensure the all-mountain rider reigns supreme. The course was designed with significant input from some of the world's best cross-country, freeride, downhill and enduro riders.
The mass start began at the top of the Garbanzo Express and dropped 3,800 vertical feet to finish in Whistler Village. What separates the Canadian Open Enduro from a traditional downhill event is the course is interspersed with short, energy-sapping, pedaling sections set to add another 400-600 vertical feet to the race.
For full event results go here: www.crankworx.com
