Alan Gordon, pictured during the Trailseeker Series, is aiming for a top result despite the toughness of the Crocodile Trophy mountain bike race, which starts in Cairns tomorrow. Photo: Jetline Action Photography
Alan Gordon won’t let the toughness of the Crocodile Trophy prevent him from going for top honours when he competes in the Australian mountain-bike race that starts in Cairns tomorrow.
Gordon, who recently turned 29, said everyone he spoke to said the eight-day event – deemed “the world’s most legendary MTB event” – was particularly difficult due to the many stages, the diverse terrain and North Queensland’s notorious humidity.
“It’s a long event, so I’m planning on taking it day by day and competing at my own pace,” said the South African.
“Humidity is also a factor, but I’m going to eat correctly and keep myself hydrated. That’s going to be key.”
Gordon said the race would be difficult to read as he was unable to assess the competition because he knew so few of the riders. But he added that he was feeling good ahead of the event.
“I trained hard in the last couple of months, so I’m ready for the challenge.”
The Tzaneen resident said this would be his first attempt at the Crocodile Trophy.
“The goal is to be in the top three positions of the solo event.”
Gordon, who won the ATKV Eiland Spa MTB Race last month, said he had always wanted to complete a stage race in Australia and that this particular one was a “must do”.
He will bring his competitive cycling year to an end with the Insect Science Classic in Limpopo Province on November 2 and the popular 947 road race in Johannesburg on November 17.
