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Batten and Swenson Triumph at Sea Otter Classic Gravel Race

Swenson Takes Lead in Life Time Grand Prix Series After Gripping 90-Mile Race

Batten and Swenson Triumph at Sea Otter Classic Gravel Race

In a thrilling display of endurance and strategy, Keegan Swenson and Haley Batten emerged victorious in the 90-mile Sea Otter Gravel race on Thursday, solidifying their positions as top competitors in the cycling world. The event, held at the renowned Sea Otter Classic—North America's largest cycling gathering—saw Swenson reclaim his lead in the Life Time Grand Prix series, which he has dominated for three consecutive seasons.

The race featured a challenging course that consisted of three 30-mile laps, totaling over 8,000 feet of grueling elevation gain. Cyclists faced rough terrain and rutted paths, testing their mettle from start to finish.

Early on, South African cyclist Matt Beers set the pace, leading the pack into the first major descent of Fort Ord National Monument. Following closely was Australian National Champion Brendan Johnston, and defending Sea Otter champion Swenson, who showcased his tactical prowess as the race unfolded.

As the racers began the first ascent back up Lookout Ridge, Beers maintained his lead, but Swenson and Johnston quickly joined him, creating a competitive trio. Despite several splintered groups behind them, they regrouped on the pavement of the Laguna Seca racetrack, where about 20 riders came together for the second lap.

Among the frontrunners was newcomer Simon Pellaud, who surged ahead, gaining more than two minutes on the competition. However, Swenson, Johnston, and Alexey Vermeulen worked collaboratively to close the gap, demonstrating the camaraderie and rivalry that defines the Life Time Grand Prix.

With just 20 miles remaining, the leading group narrowed down to Swenson, Beers, Vermeulen, and Johnston. As they approached the final ascent, Johnston fell behind, leaving Swenson to make his decisive move. Utilizing the steep slopes of Lookout Ridge, he accelerated, opening a gap that would prove insurmountable. Swenson crossed the finish line solo, with Beers and Vermeulen taking second and third place, respectively.

“It was fast, tactical racing all day, and Lookout Ridge was the only place where there was much selection," Swenson stated after the race. "I knew that was going to be the place to go on the last lap, and that I needed to play my cards right. I gave it everything I had.” His effort was so intense that he was seen vomiting post-race, a testament to the physical demands of the competition.

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While Swenson faced challenges at Unbound Gravel earlier this season, his victory at Sea Otter provides a much-needed confidence boost as he heads into the next phase of the Grand Prix series. “It’s nice to have a little buffer heading into UNBOUND too because that’s a crazy, hectic race where anything can happen," he remarked.

Haley Batten, while not a contender in the Grand Prix series, also celebrated her victory, showcasing her strength in the gravel discipline.

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The Life Time Grand Prix continues May 31st at Unbound Gravel.

2025 Sea Otter Classic Men Top 10

Keegan Swenson 4:20:25
Matthew Beers +9
Alexey Vermeulen +38
Petr Vakoc +55
Brendan Johnston +1:19
Alex Wild +1:39
Matthew Wilson +1:45
Paul Voß +1:59
Peter Stetina +2:41
Simon Pellaud +3:07

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2025 Sea Otter Classic Women Top 10

Haley Batten 5:02:45
Sofia Gomez Villafañe +5:23
Cecily Decker +5:37
Hayley Preen +10:48
Alexis Skarda +10:52
Melissa Rollins +11:19
Paige Onweller +11:53
Courtney Sherwell +13:06
Lauren De Crescenzo +15:21
Caroline Wreszin +15:57

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Tag: lifetime
 
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