Jamie Nicoll at Trans-Provence 2016

Daily updates from Jamie Nicoll at the Trans-Provence - the original multi-day mtb stage race. The Trans-Provence is the original multi-day mtb stage race. Since 2009 the course has wound its way through the Alpes-Maritimes to the Mediteranian Coast. This year it kicks off in Embrun, and finishes in the beautiful old town of Menton. Six days, 24 stages - racing 'blind' on sections none of the competitors have seen or ridden. Every year the tracks are varied and epic, the views stunning, and the general vibe amongst mates, old and new, great.

Day 6
Sospel to Menton
42km, 4 Stages, Ascent 1760m, Decent 2767m
Another Trans-Provence is over. As promised, it threw everything at the competitors - snow, mega heat, tracks with constant massive exposure, tricky navigation and a stacked field with some of the world’s best enduro riders. Without much racing under his belt this season, Jamie was stoked to keep himself, and his bike in once piece - finishing a credible 7th. After a post race dip in The Med, he’s escaped to Italy to recover and refuel for Canada's Trans BC race in a couple of weeks. 
Check out the highlights from the last day of the Trans-Provence here. 

Photo: Ludo May

Day 5
Valdeblore to Sospel
65.28km, 4 Stages, Ascent 1623m, Decent 4288m
"Hard, hot, tired, physical day! J." Day 5 highlights video here. 

Day 4
Valberg to Valdeblore
33km, 4 Stages, Ascent 736m, Decent 2775m
"We raced some wild, red terrain today! The high exposure and split second decisions needed to keep you on the trail was relentless, and tested us all day long! J." Day 4 highlights video here. 

Photo: Sven Martin

Photo: Sven Martin

Ouch. Stitches on Day 3. Yah for Dr Toms steady hand. 

Photo: Irmo Keizer

Photo: Sven Martin


"Camp 4, my favourite! J."

Day 3
Villars-Colmars to Valberg
47km, 4 Stages, Ascent 1733m, Decent 3025m
In between negotiating snow, mud and cliff hanging single track, there's the bike washing and hill top catch ups with mates, old and new. Fun. All the Day 3 action here. 

Day 2
Barcelonnette to Villars-Colmars
44km, 4 Stages, Ascent 1586m, Decent 2646m
The alps were basking in sun for the second day of the Trans-Provence, and snow was replaced by epic single track with some mind blowing exposure on stage 7. Jamie pinned it, claiming 5th place on Day 2, which notches him up to 7th in the overall standings. Check out the Day 2 highlights. 

Day 1
Embrun to Barcelonnette
38km, 4 Stages, Ascent 1739m, Decent 2502m
Day 1 of the Trans-Provence delivered a mixed bag of sun, mud and a whole lot of snow. Jamie descends Col de Vars and winds the day up in 10th spot. 
Check out the highlights from Day 1 (spot ex GE staffer Bridget McMillan)  

Day 0
Embrun
After a whole lot of rain, Prologue Day was super muddy but fun. Bring it. 
Check out the Day 0 highlights