Clarke and L’Esperance fastest at Canada's Blue Mountains Gravel Fondo

The challenging course which was held in the Niagara Escarpment region of Ontario, Canada, part of the 2023 UCI World Gravel Championships

National champion Devon Clarke (The Cyclery) won the women’s category, Dutch rider Tessa Neefjes (Liv Cycling), winner of the 3RIDES Gravel World Series round in Germany last month, came second when she crossed the line more than seven minutes behind Clarke, who finished the 126km race through Ontario's lake region with a time of 4h 9m 20a. Then with a similar gap, Australian rider Ella Bloor secured third place.

Andrew L’Esperance (Maxxis Factory Racing) was fastest in the men’s race ahead of Connor Willson 2 minutes 37 seconds behind L’Esperance who finished in 3h 39m 57s. 15-year-old EF Education ONTO development squad rider Ashlin Barry who came third.

Following on the heels of the epic Unbound Gravel Race, Neefjes was focused on recovery leading up to this race. "I had a hard time after the Unbound race and a night flight directly afterward. Some good sleep, good food, and a lot of sports massage helped me to prepare for this race," said Neejfes after the event.

"I had hoped for the win but I am happy to be on the podium. Now some rest and then on to part two of the season." This second-place win also secures Neefjes qualifying points for a spot at the 2023 UCI World Gravel Championships, on October 8 and 9 in Veneto, Italy.

Link to the 2023 Results: https://racetiming.ca/gfeventpage.php?EventId=2312