The rolling gravel roads of Latvia provided a spectacular setting for the latest round of the Gravelking UCI Gravel World Series as riders tackled a demanding 140-kilometre course around Tukums. Endless sectors of fast gravel, undulating terrain and picturesque Baltic countryside delivered a true gravel racing challenge.
In the men’s elite race, the battle for victory came down to a two-man sprint. Frenchman Eddy Le Huitouze and Denmark’s Linus Ostdal managed to distance themselves from the rest of the field and worked together all the way to the finish in Tukums. After more than three hours of racing, Le Huitouze launched his sprint perfectly and edged Ostdal on the line to secure his first-ever Gravelking UCI Gravel World Series victory.
Behind the leading duo, a large chasing group attempted to close the gap but never managed to organise an effective pursuit. French rider Magnus Bak Klaris, teammate of the runner-up, seized his opportunity in the closing kilometres, attacking from the chase group and riding clear to claim a solo third place. The remainder of the group crossed the line more than a minute and a half behind the victorious Le Huitouze.
The women’s elite race, which started 30 minutes after the men, proved equally exciting. Four riders emerged as the strongest competitors of the day and remained together deep into the race, setting the stage for a tense sprint finish.
Dutch rider Marjolien van’t Geloof produced the strongest sprint to take the victory and celebrate her first Gravelking UCI Gravel World Series success. Current series leader Wendy Oosterwoud had to settle for second place after another consistent performance that further strengthens her position in the overall standings. French rider Axelle Dubau-Prévot completed the podium in third, while experienced Lithuanian racer Katazina Sosna-Pinelė narrowly missed out on a podium finish after crossing the line in fourth.
