After a year of battling for the top spot, Mericle (USA,1) pulled it out of the bag with a stunning performance at Spartan Worlds, claiming victory on an intensely tough and cold course, with an incredible 15 minutes lead over 2nd place, Webster (CA,2).
We’ve been watching the rise of Guillot-Boisset (FRA,3) all year, and all wondering whether she can perform against the best the States and Canada have to offer, and she’s shown she most certainly can. Scooping 3rd place at Tahoe against a very strong field has proven she isn’t just a force to be reckoned with on European circuit.
There were surprises in the men’s results. It’s unlikely that anyone could’ve predicted the top 3 at Tahoe, Killian (USA,1), Atkins (CA,2), Albon (UK,3). Whilst Killian (USA, 1) has been a strong performer all year, and an old name on the OCR circuit, the odds would not have put him at the top. Anyone who finished the course out there is worthy of praise, however, to complete not only top three but to beat the world’s best definitely deserves a special mention.
After being on our committee’s radar for a while, it was no surprise to see Newell (USA,4) taking 4th place at Tahoe, all eyes are on him to see how he performs next weekend at OCRWC.
There wasn’t only action over in the US, as always Europe offered a wealth of events for athletes to tackle. With the final of the Toughest series, the OCR Series events, and Red Bull offerings, there was plenty of action available. Taking first place at the Toughest Finals, and toughest Copenhagen allowed Werkmaster (SWE,6) to re-enter the top ten, whilst Buyle (BEL, 5) gained one place after his win at Red Bull Conquer the Castle. Karlsson (SWE,4) snatched 4 places after a strong month including first place at Red Bull.
Ones to watch
Hosek (USA,7) with 5th place at Spartan WC in Tahoe, and showing a strong race, Hosek has broken into the top ten, after battling it out in the lower rankings recently.
Wahr-Hansen (NOR,8) took the female first place at Red Bull Conquer The Castle, entering the top ten as a wildcard nominated by our panel. With a strong background and definite ability, it will interesting to see where she progresses from here.
Check out this months ranking table here, and keep your eyes open for an opportunity to predict your favorites for OCRWC 2019 and win awesome prizes!
