The Bohemian Border Bash Ultra Cycling Race is no ordinary event. Spanning 1,300 km and featuring a challenging 24,000 meters of climbing circumnavigating Bohemia, crossing back and forth along national borders, and riding through Germany, Austria, Poland, and the Czech Republic.
In 2023, I embarked on a journey from the Netherlands to the Czech Republic to tackle my first solo gravel ultra, the Bohemian Border Bash. This race is renowned as one of the toughest off-road cycling challenges in the world.
As I stood at the starting line, a mixture of excitement and anxiety coursed through my veins. This was my first Solo off-road race, and I was far from a mechanical expert or an experienced gravel rider. I anticipated drama and challenges, but I was determined to see how far I could go.
Race Day Beginnings
The race kicked off with a rapid start on tarmac sections and light gravel, where riders jockeyed for position. The twists and turns of the trail made navigation tricky, and the need to defend one's space added an extra layer of complexity.
However, the stunning surroundings kept me motivated, and after 142 km, I reached checkpoint one.
Checkpoint Challenges
My journey took me through breathtaking landscapes, from dense forests to ghostly checkpoints.
Between CP1 & 2: Ghost Bikes Checkpoint
Just before CP2 there was an intermediate CP where you could sleep and resupply food. I arrived there in the middle of the night and decided to take 3-hour nap before heading back into the forest.
CP2 Upper Palatine Forest :
Political turmoil has reshaped this region over the last half-century, leaving a unique environment. Most of this area was vacated after the forced expulsion of its predominantly German inhabitants after World War II. Then, until the fall of the Communist regime in 1989, it was part of the Western Border Zone of then Czechoslovakia, virtually uninhabited. As a result, to this day, the area is only minimally affected by human activities - remaining a mosaic of quiet deep forests, meadows, and forests.
The Ghost checkpoint to checkpoint 2 stretch was a demanding ride through dense forests. I reached checkpoint 2 in the dead of night, where a hike-a-bike section awaited. Alone in the forest, fear gripped me. It was my first time navigating such terrain solo. But with determination, I found my way and pushed forward.
Day 2: New Challenges
Day three began with a sunrise that breathed new life into me. The journey led me through Bohemian Forest, which had a complicated history but remained a natural wonder. I faced more hiking than biking, a true test of my endurance.
Checkpoint 2 to Checkpoint 3: The Pursuit
I was determined to catch up to the leading lady, and our paths crossed in a hike-a-bike section. I decided to make my move and took the lead temporarily. However, fatigue caught up, and I decided to take a nap at checkpoint 3.
CP4: Unexpected Discoveries
One of the wonders of ultra cycling is the unexpected discoveries along the way. I stumbled upon a hidden gem during my journey, a UNESCO heritage site, Cesky Krumlov, a medieval city steeped in history. It was a pleasant diversion that highlighted the beauty of the race and allowed me to make a quick stop in a bike shop to fix my derailleur hanger and resupply on sports nutrition.
As I moved closer to the finish line, I found myself in a neck-and-neck race with the first lad. Our paths crossed, and we shared a brief moment, but I knew I had to give it my all to secure the top spot. I pushed myself to overtake her, only to be overtaken in return.
Checkpoint 6 to Checkpoint 9: Mountain Peaks and Harsh Conditions
The toughest challenges lay ahead as I reached the highest peaks in the Czech Republic. The harsh conditions and cold weather tested my resolve, but I pressed on, determined to reach the finish line.
CP6 was the last chance to scratch from the race, but I chose to continue. I made it to Poland, found a hotel, and slept a few hours, knowing that the next day would be a rigorous climb
Day 5: The Final Push
On the fifth day, I reached CP10, where a collapsed bridge presented a new challenge. With determination and a hiker bike strap, I crossed the broken bridge, driven by the knowledge that Ursula was chasing me.
In the end, I crossed the finish line in 124 hours and 58 minutes, becoming the first woman to complete the Bohemian Border Bash 2023. The journey was filled with challenges, from crashes to grueling climbs, but it was a testament to the power of determination and resilience.
The Bohemian Border Bash 2023 was an unforgettable adventure, a test of one's limits, and an opportunity to explore the beauty of Europe's heartland.
My Bike Setup: Gravel vs MTB bike?
Throughout this race, I rode a Fara F/Gravel bike equipped with Shimano GRX 1X, 11-42t gearing and Pirelli Cinturato Gravel M 45 mm tubeless tires with Silca sealant for puncture protection. This setup was perfect for the mixed terrain of the race. The Redshift Shockstop PRO suspension seatpost and stem provided added comfort, especially during long, gruelling sections.
The bike bags, including the Cyclite Race Backpack, Restrap tool pouch, Fara integrated frame bag, and Tailfin top tube pack, allowed me to carry essential gear while maintaining a lightweight setup.
I also used the Restrap Hike-a-bike strap and QUOC Gran Tourer II gravel shoes, which were essential for navigating the challenging hiking sections and ensuring comfort on the bike.
Aero matters even on gravel!
A unique addition to my setup was the Aerobars Controltech Sirocco, which allowed me to switch hand positions and maintain better control on the demanding terrain.
Now, let's briefly discuss the choice between a gravel bike and a mountain bike for a race like the Bohemian Border Bash Ultra Cycling Race. Each type of bike has its advantages and considerations:
Gravel Bike:
Lighter and more agile.
Faster on smoother terrain.
Ideal for mixed-surface rides.
Comfortable for long distances.
Can handle moderate off-road sections.
Mountain Bike (MTB):
Designed for rough off-road terrain.
Greater suspension for shock absorption.
More stability on technical descents.
Excellent for steep, rocky, or uneven trails.
Versatile for various trail conditions.
In the case of the Bohemian Border Bash Ultra, a gravel bike was a suitable choice due to the mix of surfaces and long-distance riding. The lightweight setup, comfortable components, and adaptability to both on-road and off-road sections made it a great fit for the race.
However, for races with more technical and rugged terrain, a mountain bike with robust suspension and knobby tires might be a better option. It's crucial to consider the specific race conditions and your riding style when choosing between a gravel bike and an MTB.
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