While Australia had a taste of the Enduro World Series in the pre-pandemic years, it’s been a long time between drinks. Like many Australians, I had planned to race a few EWS rounds over the last few years, but like many, I was thwarted by international and domestic COVID restrictions.
Well not this year! 2023 saw the big stage return to Australia, and of course Tasmania had to play host. I’m happy to be proven wrong, but it seems Tasmania is the only Aussie state that can appease the length and difficulty demanded by international enduro races. And while Derby is home to huge rock formations, Maydena holds the title for the steepest and longest trails on the island. After an unequivocally fun time at Maydena Enduro Jam last year, I eagerly signed up for the Enduro World Cup (EDR) here. I expected bulk amounts of stoke, but I also reserved a little place in my heart for some healthy fear.
TECHNICALITIES
Ok, firstly, the title of this story is slightly misleading because I actually raced the Amateur or “Open” enduro held the day before the actual Pro race. Why? Bear with me while I clear up some technicalities.
Previously known as the Enduro World Series (EWS), this esteemed series was adopted (or hijacked, depending on which way you look at it) by the UCI at the end of 2022 and renamed the Enduro World Cup (EDR). Along with filming rights acquired by Discovery Channel/Warner Bros. (though we are yet to see any such livestream of EDR). Some
