inov-8 star at Sierre-Zinal |
The 41st edition of the iconic Course de Sierre-Zinal, third race in the Skyrunner(®World Series, took place this past weekend in Switzerland. Offering a challenge to all, the course has a total elevation gain of 2,200m in the short but fast, 31km course. With a summit of 2,425 meters high, it provides a spectacular addition to the Skyrunner® World Series. Switzerland’s Valais Alps attract a top-class international field to undertake the classic point-to-point journey. The course has a stunning backdrop of the “Course des cinq 4000” five classic 4,000m peaks, including the Matterhorn, which are above the route. Swiss athlete David Schneider has been relatively quiet lately, as he has become a Dad, however, his attention to detail and focus was not compromised for what he may well consider to be a ‘home’ race. Clearly stating that Sierre-Zinal was a target race for the year, David excelled and produced a world class 7th place overall in what is considered to be an extremely competitive field. Fresh from a top three placing at the Skyrunner® World Series Speedgoat 50k in Utah, American, Alex Nichols was looking to continue his form in Switzerland. On the day, Alex produced an excellent 15th however; he openly admitted that he was not firing on all cylinders. Frenchman, Pierre-Laurent Viguier rounded out the inov-8 male performances with 46th overall. |