This past weekend, our gravel team lined up for The Hills, a race that lived up to its name with brutal conditions, relentless attacks, and an elite field of competitors. In the end, Toby Perry took the win for Classified x ROSE fueled by Foodmaker team after an intense battle on the muddy roads.
The race started fast and controlled, with the team staying attentive at the front. After 20 km, they positioned themselves well before a crucial tunnel section where riders were forced to dismount. As expected, the race split immediately afterward, leaving a group of 15 riders in the lead, including four from our team.
Soon after, two Italian riders launched an attack, and Toby managed to follow. However, a misdirection by race marshals caused their breakaway to be reeled back in, forming a new lead group of 15 riders. As the race entered a long flat section, Piotr and Arno controlled the pace, setting up the team for the second climb-heavy section of the course.
It was here that Paul Voss made a decisive move, shattering the field. A group of five riders, including Toby, broke clear, while a second chase group formed behind them. With 60 km remaining, Toby seized the moment, attacking solo. Behind him, the race turned into a survival battle as cold temperatures and relentless rain took their toll.
Toby’s win was powered by his Classified-equipped bike, running a 52T chainring and the Powershift Hub. The ability to instantly shift under load allowed him to react at key moments in the race and maintain an optimal cadence throughout the ever-changing terrain.
Despite suffering from bad luck, Piotr dropped back after a strong race, while Thomas fought his way back into the top 10. Arno finished in 17th after pushing through the brutal conditions. Up front, Toby managed to hold off all chasers, crossing the line solo to take a well-earned victory.
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