THE FINNS CONQUER THE SWEDISH REGION OF BERGSLAGEN
Markus Auvinen and Wilma Antila stand on top of the podium at the prestigious Bergslagen NGS
The race hosted the Gravel Earth Series for the second consecutive year, showcasing the natural beauty of Sweden
Last Saturday, August 24th, the scenic region of Bergslagen in central Sweden played host to the highly anticipated Bergslagen NGS, an important race in the prestigious Gravel Earth Series. The event, set against the backdrop of Sweden’s early industrial heartland with its historic villages, extensive forests, and rugged hills, attracted top gravel cyclists. The race featured tracks of 60, 110, and 173 kilometers, with the 173 km race being the official distance for the Gravel Earth Series. The winners were Markus Auvinen and Wilma Aintila of Finland.
The Bergslagen NGS not only offered participants the chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Kilsbergen mountain range and the picturesque surroundings of Nora but also served as a pivotal moment in the Gravel Earth Series standings. With only three races remaining in the series, competitors are fully aware that their two best results of the year, combined with the outcome of the Gravel Earth Final in October, will determine their overall ranking.
In the men’s category, Finland’s Markus Auvinen emerged victorious after a dramatic sprint finish, clocking a time of 4h58m37s. Auvinen narrowly edged out Sweden’s Michael Tjulander and fellow Finn Vladyslav Makogon, who took second and third place, respectively. The race culminated in a nail-biting finale, with the top three biders crossing the finish line almost simultaneously, showcasing the intense competition that defined the day.
In the women’s race, Finland’s Wilma Antila claimed a commanding victory, finishing in 5h51m45s. Antila finished eight minutes ahead of Rwanda’s Xaverine Nirere, who secured second place, while Swedish biker Malin Jansson rounded out the podium in third.
With just four events left in the Gravel Earth Series, the competition is heating up as bikers focus on securing crucial points before the final showdown in October. The Bergslagen NGS has undoubtedly set the stage for an exhilarating conclusion to the series.
