Lost Dot Podcast: The Transcontinental, Trans Pyrenees, and Accursed Race.
Stories from the Transcontinental Race, the Trans Pyrenees Race, and The Accursed Race. At the sharp end they are beautifully hard bicycle races, simple in design but complex in execution. Factors of self reliance, logistics, navigation and judgement burden racers’ minds as well as their physiques. The strongest excel and redefine what we think possible while many experienced riders target only a finish.
Episodes
TPRNo6 // Day 9
It’s the final day of TPRNo6 and riders continue to be welcomed at Eat Sleep Cycle, where their races end and their achievements are celebrated. Finish drinks on the patio slide nicely into the Finishers’ Party. Tune in for amusing stories and emotional moments from the finish line as the GC cut-off nears and anticipation mounts.We invite you to follow along with our race coverage through this da
TPRNo6 // Day 8
Day 8 at TPRNo6, and the end is in sight. Finishers continue to grow more numerous on the streets around Eat Sleep Cycle in Girona, as the daily rhythm of racing begins to give way to something more contemplative. Race Reporter Maya Noriega is back where it all started one week ago, chatting with riders over coffee and breakfast. We hear more from Bursary Rider Katharina Wirth (027) and Arnaud He
TPRNo6 // Day 7
Day 7 at TPRNo6. In this episode, we’re back out on the Raid Parcours as riders navigate the moodiness of the mountains. Up on Col de Pailhères, Race Reporter Maya Noriega captures the action as riders emerge from the mist, including Julian Zeug (122), suffering from the gradients but soaking up the scenery nonetheless. Back in Girona, more finishers are rolling into town, bringing with them the
TPRNo6 // Day 6
Day 6 at TPRNo6. More riders are arriving at the finish line in Girona, dismounting for the final time after days in the saddle. Race Reporter Stuart Downie is there to capture their first words, including Jana Kesenheimer (002) and Robert Müller’s (003) as they close out the top ten in GC.Further north, the Raid Parcours keeps delivering. Race Reporter Maya Noriega picks up the story as the sun
TPRNo6 // Day 5
Day 5 at TPRNo6. With race leader Nicolas Chatelet (008) completing the Raid Parcours overnight, Control Team One is back in Girona, anticipating his arrival by the afternoon.Further back, the race is far from over. Race Reporter Maya Noriega crosses from Spain into France to catch riders from the mid-pack now making their way along the Raid. The weather is turning blustery, and with iconic climb
TPRNo6 // Day 4
It’s Day 4 at TPRNo6. As the leaders continue to make quick progress along the infamous Raid parcours, we hear from second-placed Bruno Wicht (066), who is beginning to feel the fatigue of consecutive climbs. Meanwhile, Race Reporter Stuart Downie is stationed on the Col du Tourmalet at the crack of dawn, hoping to catch Anatole Naimi (076) as he summits.Elsewhere, riders on Parcours D contend wi
TPRNo6 // Day 3
It’s Day 3 at TPRNo6. At the sharp end of the race, the leaders are slipping elusively through the Basque Country toward the Atlantic coast, before turning inland once more for the Raid parcours. Further back, riders are digging deep to stay ahead of the CP2 cut-off, pushing through the densely shaded Cañón de Añisclo. Race Coordinator David Ayre checks in from the road, including with TPR-vetera
TPRNo6 // Day 2
It’s the second day of racing at TPRNo6. Riders have peeled away from the Mediterranean coast, heading inland through Parcours A & B towards CP1 at Pessonada. Race Reporter Stuart Downie and Race Coordinator David Ayre catch riders across the field after their first night on the road, finding out who has slept — and, in the case of Robert Müller (003), how, as he continues his improvised race
TPRNo6 // Day 1
It’s race day at TPRNo6. Riders gather beneath the lights of Plaça Catalunya, nerves and anticipation building ahead of the pre-dawn grand depart. Race Reporter Maya Noriega catches a few final words, including from Charlie Bratt (149), back for another shot at TPR after injury last year.We join Race Director Andrew Phillips as riders roll out under police escort, heading for the iconic Els Àngel
TPRNo6 // Registration Day
It’s registration day at TPRNo6. Caps and trackers are collected, bikes checked, and riders briefed as their final preparations begin for the undulating road ahead.In this episode, Race Reporter Maya Noriega takes the pulse in old town Girona, soaking up the atmosphere and talking to riders about the expectations and nerves before the start. We hear from Sergey Shulubin (099), back for another fi
TPRNo6 // Pre-Race
While restless riders attempt to sleep, tune in for the pre-race podcast, laying the land before the race rolls full steam ahead tomorrow morning. Race Director Andrew Phillips reminds listeners not to underestimate the challenges that await in the Pyrenees, or the calculated planning needed to execute a race well. Race Coordinator David Ayre walks us through this year’s route, while Race Reporte
TCRNo12 // Day 19 & 20
The final podcast episode from TCRNo12 takes listeners into the last days on the finish line in Kalamata, hearing from riders who managed to roll in before the final GC cut-off and following the celebrations all the way to the long-awaited finishers’ party.From ticking off bucket-list goals to forming unforgettable bonds while sharing the road, this episode dives into the rider experience from th
TCRNo12 // Day 18
As day 18 of TCRNo12 brings more riders to the finish line, Race Reporter Sophie Potter is there to capture climactic moments. Emotional reunions and hard-earned reflections define this episode as Tom Bryan (379) relives the surreal blur of crossing a continent, Nicholas Müller (141) reminds us to live in the present moment, and Mudit Kohli (128) receives a moving reception from fellow riders.Alt
TCRNo12 // Day 17
Day 17 of TCRNo12. Kalamata is filled with finishers, proving that what once seemed impossible can become reality. Recovery spins replace race pace as riders reconnect, compare routes and reflect on the preparation that got them here. We also hear from Race Photographer Michael Drummond on capturing those unforgettable finish-line moments.Further back, the race is far from over. With CP4 closing
TCRNo12 // Day 16
Day 16 of the Transcontinental Race finds CP4 — the penultimate control — alive with stories as riders arrive for one last brevet stamp before the finish. We hear from solo racers and pairs, including Mudit Kohli (128), riding in memory of his brother, and Julian Manrique (202), whose journey has become as much about discovering the history of the countries he’s crossed as the kilometres pedalled
TCRNo12 // Day 15
Day 15 of TCRNo12 sees more riders rolling into Kalamata, where the finish-line atmosphere is buoyant with relief, celebration and shared experience. In this episode, we hear from riders and loved ones alike as two weeks of crossing a continent come to an end. Daniel Schulze Waltrup (342) describes the emotional whirlwind of the final descent toward the finish, and Jana Kesenheimer (010) reflects
TCRNo12 // Day 14
Day 14 at TCRNo12 and the race rolls into its third week. With CP3 in Sarajevo closing at 23:59CEST, riders still chasing the cutoff are digging deep.We follow Control Team 2 towards the Grecian coast, catching up with riders along the way. Aboard the ferry between Antirrio and Rio, Hélène Fromenty (134) shares her nerves about tackling the Finish Parcours in the heat.We welcome more riders into
TCRNo12 // Day 13
As the beauty and relentlessness of TCRNo12 continue to unfold in equal measure, Day 13 delivers the heat with hard-earned finishes and impressive racing against the clock. More riders rolled into the finish in Kalamata, Greece, carrying their stories from across the continent, including FLINTA runner-up Camille Albisser (270) and first Mike Hall Bursary finisher Wojciech Wronka (096).
With temper
TCRNo12 // Day 12
As day 12 of TCRNo12 dawns, the front runners continue to cross the finish line, with the top five already home and dry. Race Reporter Jake Thorpe catches up with sixth-place Manuel Rudaz (004), who reflects on the resilience that he relied upon from the start, while Robert Müller (037) talks about the challenges that defined his race.Back on the course, Control Team 2 finds riders enjoying Alban
TCRNo12 // Day 11
Day 11 of TCRNo12 saw the podium decided. Race Reporter Jake Thorpe catches up with second-place Nicolas Châtelet (126) and third-place Jocelyn Roth (114), whose consistently strong rides earned them top honours.Control Team 2 follows riders through the rugged landscape of Parcours 4. Florian Thiessen (165) recounts an unexpected but welcome invitation, while former winner Josh Ibbett (101) refle
TCRNo12 // Day 10
Day 10 of TCRNo12 crowns a winner. Robin Gemperle (001) rolls into Kalamata just 10 days, 8 hours and 55 minutes after the grand départ in Trondheim. Fresh off the bike, he reflects on what the ride means to him.Not far back, the tussle for the remaining top places continues as riders reach CP4. Tim De Witte (003) arrives in eighth, ready to sleep before one final push to the finish. Control Team
TCRNo12 // Day 9
Day 9 of TCRNo12 and the finish is coming into focus. Though the race is far from over, Robin Gemperle (001) opens what could be a decisive gap as he pushes towards the finish. Race Director David Ayre explains the thinking behind the race's closing stages.Meanwhile, Control Team 2 heads off-road on the trail of Pawel Pulawski (008) who is finding solace on quieter roads. With the FLINTA category
TCRNo12 // Day 8
Day 8 of TCRNo12 and the temperature is rising. Robin Gemperle (001) still leads the field, but Nicolas Châtelet (126) is refusing to let the elastic snap. Race Reporter Jake Thorpe finds out how Nicolas is approaching the final stages of the race.Control Team 2 is left chasing shadows as the pace also climbs in the FLINTA category. Race Reporter Sophie Potter catches third-placed Lea Hamberger (
TCRNo12 // Day 7
Day 7 of TCRNo12 sees the race enter a decisive new phase. Robin Gemperle (001) carries his lead into the Balkans, but with Nicolas Châtelet (126) closing in, the pressure is mounting.Control Team 2 catches riders before they embark on the climbs of Parcours 2a, stops for ice cream in Žulová, and hears from FLINTA riders about the unique challenges of racing the TCR. Plus, Martin Carlsson (091) r
TCRNo12 // Day 6
Day 6 of TCRNo12 dawns. After the flatlands of Poland, the grimpeurs are glad to find the road rising toward CP2, where the race enters the pine-clad mountains of Czechia and Slovakia. At CP2, John from Albion Cycling greets the front of the field, sharing his perspective on how riders are coping with the demands of Parcours 2b. Jos Koop (063), arriving in fifth joins Race Reporter Jake Thorpe to
TCRNo12 // Day 5
On the fifth day, the first riders are nearing CP2, tucked into the forested peaks of Slovakia’s Tatra Mountains. In this episode, we hear from Robert Müller (037) as he rattles along the challenging terrain of Parcours 2a, Katharina Wirth (199) as she lines up all her ducks, and Robin Gemperle (001) as he slithers under a banned road.Mid-pack riders continue to stream across the Baltic Sea into
TCRNo12 // Day 4
It's Day 4 of TCRNo12, and another day of racing against the dock as riders sprint to catch the Baltic ferries bound for Poland and the next chapter of their journey across Europe.In this episode, Race Reporter Jake Thorpe hops aboard the Tom Sawyer to catch up with a host of riders, including bursary rider Wojciech Wronka (095), who has had an impressive start to the race. Further back, the fiel
TCRNo12 // Day 3
It’s day 3 of TCRNo12, and the race is beginning to reveal itself. As CP1 creeps towards closure, every kilometre carries extra weight for tiring minds and aching bodies. In this episode, we hear from riders on both sides of that fine margin where grit, fatigue and the clock converge.Further along the route, riders reach Sweden on the Horten–Moss ferry, breaking into a new country for the first t
TCRNo12 // Day 2
It’s day two on TCRNo12. Race leader, Robin Gemperle (001) and his relentless pack of chasers have vanished through CP1 and into the night, leaving the rest of the field to grind their way across Parcours 1a and 1b. Out on the trail, the spectrum of emotions match the vastness of the landscapes. In this episode, we hear about the simple pleasures that keep the pedals turning, while Race Reporter
TCRNo12 // Day 1
It’s Day 1 of TCRNo12, and riders are emerging from a frigid first night on the road. As the morning sun brings welcome warmth, thawing bones and bivvy bags, we hear how riders have fared. Race Director David Ayre shares his first impressions in these early stages of the race, while Race Coordinator Hannah Larbalestier brings Parcours 1a and 1b to life. We dive into the challenges of self-support
TCRNo12 // Registration Day
It’s Registration Day at TCRNo12. The sun is shining as riders arrive at the Rosenborghallen in Trondheim for registration ahead of the grand depart. In this episode, anticipation builds as we hear from seasoned TCR veterans like Christoph Strasser (005), lining up for his fifth start, and first-time riders such as Susi Pariasek (242), who arrives after a winter of focused preparation. Race repor
TCRNo12 // Pre-Race
The Pre-Race podcast episode ahead of the 12th edition of the Transcontinental Race, starting at 20:00CEST on 19th July in Trondheim, Norway.It’s time to tune in to your pre-race preview ahead of Sunday’s much-anticipated race start in Trondheim. Race Reporters Sophie Jail and Jake Thorpe speak with a variety of riders in the lead-up to the big day about strategy, nerves, and what keeps them movi
6: Lost Dot 101 Podcast // Day 6: It's Raining FLINTAs
That's the Lost Dot 101 signing off until next year. Hear the sounds of the final day, the finishers' party, awards ceremony, and closing thoughts from the media team in this last episode, concluding the inaugural edition of the first ever all-FLINTA race from Lost Dot. See you in 2027!Available wherever you listen to podcasts. Link in bio.Hosting, Production & Editing: Nik RawlingsMusic: Nik
5: Lost Dot 101 Podcast // Day 5: It’s not over, not over, not over yet
Expectations were surpassed for many riders crossing the Lost Dot 101 finish line, and in this Day 5 episode they reflect on the lessons, surprises, and memories gathered out on the road. Experiences that once felt unknown have now been lived, as first-time ultra racers discovered just how capable they really are.Hear the sounds of the race for yourself in our latest episode. Available wherever y
4: Lost Dot 101 Podcast // Day 4: Where Is My Mind
Day 4 in Córdoba and the podium is complete. Amrei Kuhne (034) rolls in second after surviving on “sweet and disgusting stuff”, while Elise Sauvinet (128) clinches third thanks to a heavy dose of tracker-checking. Also in this episode, riders endure punctures, soaked roads (again), and solving saddle sores with supermarket sponges. Jessica Notzing (064) recounts the best morning ride of her life,
3: Lost Dot 101 Podcast // Day 3: Sugar, Honey Honey
Day 3 of the Lost Dot 101 brought sunshine at last — and the first finisher. In this episode hear how Anna Richter (071) kept motivated over the last stretch of racing as they rolled their way to the finish in Córdoba in an impressive 3 days, 3 hours and 30 minutes. Further back, the race for the podium is still hot and, with the closure of CP2, we encounter increasingly weary minds and bodies be
2: Lost Dot 101 Podcast // Day 2: Pastel de Nutters
Day two of the Lost Dot 101 delivers more rain and challenging climbs, but a quiet determination and solidarity amongst the riders keeps them moving south. Emma Young (023) has been dreaming not of the finish, but of a Lidl shopping list, and Bursary Rider Katharina Zerlauth (073) gets resourceful to keep warm and dry. With the CP1 closure looming, riders on the cusp push hard to remain in conten
1: Lost Dot 101 Podcast // Day 1: Bye Galicia
Welcome to the glamorous world of ultra racing: soaked sleeping bags, dishwashing gloves, and bread bags worn as socks. After a challenging first night on the road, riders emerge from bus stops, makeshift shelters, hostels, and bivvy bags to take on the climbs towards CP1 at Bragança. Meanwhile, at the sharp end, the pace is cranking as Anna Richter (071) opens a huge lead, cutting through Portug
Lost Dot 101 Podcast // Race Day
It’s Race Day for the first-ever all-FLINTA unsupported cycling race. From first-time riders to Transcontinental veterans, this episode captures the anticipation, vulnerability, excitement, and community at the heart of the race. Hear from riders as they pass through registration making final preparations before last-minute fixes and big emotions must give way to a rain-filled grand depart into t
Lost Dot 101 Podcast // Pre-Race
Tune in for the pre-race episode of the Lost Dot 101 podcast, setting the scene for the road ahead. Hosting an all-FLINTA field including ~50% first-time racers, the Lost Dot 101 will see participants race from the starting line in historic Santiago de Compostela due south, finishing in the city of Córdoba having navigated along mandatory parcours and through control points along the way.In this e
Unpacking the Rules and Spirit of the Race + Q&A
Lost Dot Podcast // Unpacking the Rules and Spirit of the Race + Q&AsIn a special episode of the Lost Dot podcast, we unpack the rules and spirit of the race, as well as answer questions from the community. Recorded back in February, Race Directors Hannah Larbalestier and Andrew Phillips, along with Media Manager Taylor Doyle, sit down and dive into our foundations, as set out by our late fou
TPRNo5 // Day 09
It’s the day of the finisher’s party, and emotions are running high as riders reach the finish line. Our race reporters are there to capture every raw, unfiltered story. Step onto the streets of San Sebastián, and back along the Raid Parcours, to hear from riders as they close in on the end of their TPRNo5 journey.Follow the fifth (gravel) edition of the Trans Pyrenees Race (TPR) – a 1900KM self-s
TPRNo5 // Day 08
Riders are racing against the clock, each battling with their own blend of durability and demons. It’s the day before the finisher’s party, and there’s still hope of making it in time for karaoke in San Sebastián. Hear from those still on the road as they push through the final leg of their race, and from those who’ve already made it to the line, relieved and ready to relax on the beach.Follow the
TPRNo5 // Day 07
Riders are finding their limits and pushing them, grinding further along the Raid parcours to reach San Sebastián. The monstrous mountains are messing with morale, but still legs persist. This too shall pass, as they say. From pizza-flavoured crackers to cracked carbon rims, hear the latest tales from the road on the Lost Dot podcast. Follow the fifth (gravel) edition of the Trans Pyrenees Race (T
TPRNo5 // Day 06
It’s another stunning morning in the Pyrenees, with a coral glow cast across the mountains and a full moon still hanging in the sky. One half of the media team are stationed on the Col d’Aspin, the other atop the Tourmalet, both waiting to document riders in their natural habitat. As the kilometres grind on, some riders are weary, while others are jubilant in their experience, not wanting their ti
TPRNo5 // Day 05
The CP5 cut-off is looming, and emotions are running high. Riders have crossed to the far side of the Pyrenees, yet for many, the finish still feels a world away. Tune in to our latest podcast episode for personal rider interviews and stories that bring you closer to the heart of the race.Follow the fifth (gravel) edition of the Trans Pyrenees Race (TPR) – a 1900KM self-supported race through some
TPRNo5 // Day 04
Get a play-by-play of yesterday’s reshuffling in our latest episode. As the front of the pack breaks onto the Raid Parcours, others are pushing to make CP cut-offs and hotel bookings. The race is starting to play with riders’ minds, from tears over yoghurt to listening to the same song on repeat, hear the latest unravellings and small victories from the road.Follow the fifth (gravel) edition of th
TPRNo5 // Day 03
The third day of TPRNo5 brought more puzzles to solve: Spain or France, road or gravel, distance or proximity? These are questions only individual riders can answer, shaped by their preparedness, skillset, and state of body and mind. Tune in to our latest podcast episode to hear from the riders themselves and get closer to the action in the Pyrenees.Follow the fifth (gravel) edition of the Trans P
TPRNo5 // Day 02
Get an in-depth recap of the second day of the Trans Pyrenees Race. The adrenaline from the start has worn off, and riders aren’t yet halfway through — how are they faring? Strategies are being unpacked and reshuffled in the wake of so much choice. Tune in to hear the latest conundrums.Follow the fifth (gravel) edition of the Trans Pyrenees Race (TPR) – a 1900KM self-supported race through some of
TPRNo5 // Day 01
From the mix of emotions at the start line, to the first mechanicals of the race, no one’s path on the TPR is linear. The first day set in motion over 100 unique race stories. Hear from riders as they endeavor to find their groove amidst the gentle cowbells of the Pyrenees. Follow the fifth (gravel) edition of the Trans Pyrenees Race (TPR) – a 1900KM self-supported race through some of the most be
TPRNo5 // Registration
Anticipatory energy fills the air at Anoeta Stadium as riders move through registration, receiving their caps, trackers, and bike checks. Get a personal tour through the process from Race Reporters Hannah Larbalestier and Stuart Downie, and hear how different riders have come prepared for the off-road segments ahead. This episode ends with the all-important rider briefing, wishing all the best of
TPRNo5 // Pre-Race
The calm before the (gravel) storm. Tune in for a pre-race episode to whet your appetite for aggregate. Race Organisers unpack the route ahead, and interviews with a selection of riders help set the stage for this off-road adventure. Follow the fifth (gravel) edition of the Trans Pyrenees Race (TPR) – a 1900KM self-supported race through some of the most beautifully remote scenery and iconic mount
TCRNo11 // Day 18
Day 18 and the final race day before the GC cut-off. Riders are pouring into Constanța and the beach bar all day long, as our race reporters hear their stories. With the final GC cut-off extended by 1 hour due to changes to the Finish Parcours, James rolled in just before 02:00 local time — with only 25 minutes to spare. The bulk of the finishers’ party had drifted away, but a loyal crowd remained
TCRNo11 // Day 17
Its day 17 of the Transcontinental Race and riders are being interviewed freshly arrived on the finish line. Hear their unique stories and from our race reporters in Constanța in the lastest episode.This year's podcast host is the legendary, Jenny Tough. We invite you to follow along with our race coverage through this daily podcast, our daily race reports, and on TCR Instagram. TCRNo11 tracking a
TCRNo11 // Day 16
It’s the 16th race day of the Transcontinental Race, and the miles are taking their toll. Race Reporter Jake follows the final push for the General Classification as tired riders roll into the Finish, securing their hard-earned positions. At Zoom Beach, Race Reporter Sophie welcomes a constant flow of arrivals as they reflect on their feats and settle into well-earned rest. From further out on the
TCRNo11 // Day 15
It’s day 15 of the Transcontinental Race. Some riders are pushing to reach the final control point before midnight, chasing the cut-off with every turn of the pedals. Over 50 have already crossed the Finish, sharing what kept them moving through heat, headwinds, and long nights — small rituals, moments of kindness, and the pull of the final stretch. Race Reporter Sophie recaps the day as the Finis
TCRNo11 // Day 14
It’s Day 14 of the Transcontinental Race, and the push to reach Constanța before the cut-off is on. The first pair to finish cross the line in a wave of relief, while riders at the beach share words of encouragement for those still out on the road. Further back, many are rolling through CP5 in Albania — with plenty still choosing to take on the gravel section before heading north.This year's podca
TCRNo11 // Day 13
It’s day 13 of the Transcontinental Race. Our Race Reporters catch up with riders in Constanța, who are enjoying the beach bar at the finish line, reflecting on the race, and what their first thoughts or cravings were after finishing their long journeys. Race Director Andrew explains a diversion on the final parcours. The remaining riders pedal through CP4 before its closure at midnight, and we he
TCRNo11 // Day 12
It’s Day 12 of the Transcontinental Race and all eyes are on the race for the fastest woman to finish. Race Coordinator Hannah has been tracking Jana Kesenheimer (001) and Cynthia Carson (137), and we catch up with those already at the finish line. Race Reporter Sophie finds out what’s keeping some riders pedalling on, from Italy to the Balkans, and summarizes the current field. This year's podcas
TCRNo11 // Day 11
Day 11 of the Transcontinental Race brings the first two riders to the Finish in Constanța, Romania, securing their podium spots. The bulk of the race separates on two distinct routes — north through Romania, or south through the mountains of Bulgaria. Control Team 2 catches up with riders climbing the mountains, and Race Reporter Sophie catches up with the fastest three women in the race, who st
TCRNo11 // Day 10
It’s Day 10 of the Transcontinental Race, and our race reporters are now both on the eastern side of the Adriatic. Sophie talks us through the women’s field, and it's reset after the fastest three women all boarded the same ferry, and catches up with riders passing through CP5. Jake provides an update on the front of the race — after a decision over the safety of a bridge crossing, the race for th
TCRNo11 // Day 09
Day 09 is a busy day on the Transcontinental Race: CP3 closed at 09:00CEST, some riders received their stamps before doubling back to tackle the parcours, and we hear from riders chasing CP cut-off times. The race for the ferry is ever present, with the fastest 3 women racing towards Bari. In the Balkans, CP5 is open, and more riders are coming through. Race Director Andrew chats with Victor to ga
TCRNo11 // Day 08
Day 08 of the Transcontinental Race, and now that riders have been on the road for over a week, Race Reporter Sophie asks where they would be on a Monday morning, if they weren’t racing. Race Coordinator Hannah provides a birds eye view update on the race, we catch up with some pairs riders, and the front of the Women’s race passes through CP4. This year's podcast host is the legendary, Jenny Toug
TCRNo11 // Day 07
It’s day 07 of the Transcontinental Race, and the four leading riders are in a close race to the ferry, a strategic bottleneck in this year’s race. Control Team 1 waits at the ferry port in Bari to see who will make the night’s crossing. We also hear from Sophie on her brompton, who catches up with the fastest women, and from CP3, where riders are warming up after a very cold ride on the Strada de
TCRNo11 // Day 06
It’s Day 06 and the Transcontinental Race is picking up with some exciting movements from the leading riders. The race for the lead and podium is tight, with four riders in close proximity, but there’s all to play for with a sparse ferry timetable. Race Reporter Jake talks us through the Strade Bianche, while Sophie tracks down the top three pairs riders to find out how they’re getting on. This ye
TCRNo11 // Day 05
Day 05 of the Transcontinental Race brings a sweeping view of the field, with riders now stretched across three countries: from the final climbs of Spain, through the sun-drenched roads of France, and into the towering passes of Italy. Reporter Jack Thorpe checks in with Race Director Andrew Phillips for a rundown on the current race leaders and emerging strategies at the front. As temperatures ri
TCRNo11 // Day 04
It’s Day 04 of the Transcontinental Race and many riders are now deep into France, collecting their second stamps at CP2 and making the most of local boulangeries. With the pack stretching further across the map, both control cars were busy tracking down riders to hear how they’re holding up.From damp, sleep-deprived mornings spent huddled in cafés to moments of joy on familiar roads, we check in
TCRNo11 // Day 03
Welcome to the Transcontinental Race; the definitive self-supported bicycle race across Europe. It’s Day 03 and CP1 officially closed this morning after a final wave of late-night and early-morning arrivals. Race Reporters were on the ground, speaking to riders still digging deep to earn that stamp.In this episode, Jake and Andrew unpack the demands of Parcours 2 and the strategic route choices sh
TCRNo11 // Day 02
It’s Day 02 of the Transcontinental Race and the mid-pack is steadily rolling through Control Point 1. Jake and Sophie catch stories of resilience, determination, and riders tackling adversity with a positive mental attitude — spirits are high and the community vibe is unmistakable. Up front, the women’s race is exciting, with the leading riders riding through CP1. There’s genuine stoke in the air
TCRNo11 // Day 01
It’s Day 01, and Race Reporters Sophie and Jake are out on the road—Sophie pedalling her Brompton, Jake jogging alongside riders—capturing voices from the early race. Riders share stories from their first night out: from sleeping under the stars for the very first time, to spending the night in a graveyard toilet. A TCR birthday is celebrated, and Spain’s rich supply of food and drink is keeping m
TCRNo11 // Race Day
Welcome to the Transcontinental Race; the definitive self-supported bicycle race across Europe. At the sharp end it is a beautifully hard bicycle race, simple in design but complex in execution. Factors of self reliance, logistics, navigation and judgement burden racers’ minds as well as their physiques. The strongest excel and redefine what we think possible, while many experienced riders target
TCRNo11 // Pre-Race
Welcome to the Transcontinental Race; the definitive self-supported bicycle race across Europe. At the sharp end it is a beautifully hard bicycle race, simple in design but complex in execution. Factors of self reliance, logistics, navigation and judgement burden racers’ minds as well as their physiques. The strongest excel and redefine what we think possible, while many experienced riders target
Women Who Race // Ep.6 Cynthia Carson
Cynthia Carson (@watt_wagon) made her entry into the ultra-racing scene back in 2022, and in just a few years she’s made a real impact – collecting an impressive series of titles, with wins at Unbound XL, Badlands, Transcordilleras, and Atlas Mountain Race. She was all set to take on the Transcontinental Race No10 when a collision just two weeks before the start put an end to her ambitions.In this
TARNo2 Day 11 // Final Send
Welcome to The Accursed Race. Lost Dot's no-fly, off-road, fixed route race in the Balkans.As the curtains close on the second edition of The Accursed Race, riders continue to arrive in Shokdër at Traveler Hostel throughout the final day. They are greeted by welcoming cheers of congratulations, and this merriment transitions nicely into the finisher’s party. The last arrival of the night is Franco
TARNo2 Day 10 // Post-Race Haze
Welcome to The Accursed Race. Lost Dot's no-fly, off-road, fixed route race in the Balkans.Day ten sees a final rush to Peshkopi before the CP closure, as the media team wait to see who makes it. Thorsten Brönner (35) is the last to arrive before the time-cut, now gathering all remaining strength to get himself to Shkodër on time. Stories of gear failures, safety checks, begging for brakepads, and
TARNo2 Day 09 // Golden Eagle
Welcome to The Accursed Race. Lost Dot's no-fly, off-road, fixed route race in the Balkans.Small flurries of ardent applause punctuated the day at Traveler Hostel, as three more riders completed their races. At CP2, riders continue to battle against the protests of mind and body before the CP closing. Hear their struggles and the first-hand race recordings, capturing the authenticity as if you wer
TARNo2 Day 08 // Mind Games
Welcome to The Accursed Race. Lost Dot's no-fly, off-road, fixed route race in the Balkans.Riders are having to rally against the mounting mental and physical demands of the race, enduring tough and wet conditions as a cluster of arrivals reach CP2 yesterday. After eight days of the rough stuff, it’s no wonder that riders are feeling the effects of this challenge. Many question their willingness t
TARNo2 Day 07 // Broken Roads
Welcome to The Accursed Race. Lost Dot's no-fly, off-road, fixed route race in the Balkans.Starting the day in Kosovo and heading for Peshkopi, Control Team 1 race ahead of riders to get set up for the best shots. Later at CP2, some are turning up unmotivated while others are on a high, and starting to believe that they will see the finish. We see the top-ten riders arrive in Peshkopi, and Alain R
TARNo2 Day 06 // Storm Front
Welcome to The Accursed Race. Lost Dot's no-fly, off-road, fixed route race in the Balkans.Join us for the adventures of day six. This episode brings us the sounds of victory, as Justinas Leveika (02) closes in on the finish, racing a storm. Further back, riders continue to arrive at CP1 in Berane before the CP closes, contrasting the vastly different timelines in this race. The mid pack is made u
TARNo2 Day 05 // Lessons Learned
Welcome to The Accursed Race. Lost Dot's no-fly, off-road, fixed route race in the Balkans.Listen to the latest stories from day 5 of The Accursed Race.Data analysis, prom night, and the ebbs and flows of rider confidence. Listen to the day five adventures of the race. Though Justinas is maintaining his strong lead, he is still undertaking a significant challenge. Our media team interviews an exha
