TCRNo11 // Pre-Race

Welcome to the Transcontinental Race; the definitive self-supported bicycle race across Europe. At the sharp end it is a beautifully hard bicycle race, simple in design but complex in execution. Factors of self reliance, logistics, navigation and judgement burden racers’ minds as well as their physiques. The strongest excel and redefine what we think possible, while many experienced riders target only a finish.

In this Pre-Race episode, Race Director Andrew Philips talks us through the race route, Control Points, and highlights of this year's edition. Race Coordinator Hannah Larbalestier explains the 100 TCR Women campaign, and its impact on this year’s starting lineup. We hear from bursary riders Joe Howe and Lis Gardner as they prepare for the race, from serious health setbacks to being ready to ride across Europe.

Vedangi Kulkarni is still missing a bike for the start line, but is ready to race. Julien Gravaud is aiming to contest the Pairs category with his friend Simon this year. He shares what it's like to ride in a pair. Sofie Mangersteader, inspired by the 100 TCR Women campaign, is taking on her biggest race ever, she talks about her preparation, her excitement, and meeting some of her idols.

This year's podcast host is the legendary, Jenny Tough. She asks riders what they’ll be bringing, and what they’ll be listening to.

We invite you to follow along with our race coverage through this daily podcast, our daily race reports, and on TCR Instagram.

TCRNo11 tracking and race reports here: https://www.lostdot.cc/tcr

Hosted and produced by Jenny Tough.