Looking at the start list of the Hawaii Express 25th Tartu MTB Marathon, several famous riders who previously competed for high podium places are missing. This is because the Mountain Bike Marathon in Denmark and the Road Bike World Championships in Australia are taking place at the same time.

For example, previous winners Peeter Tarvis and Alo Jakin will be absent from Tartu MTB Marathon this year. Martins Blums (LAT), Eimantas Gudiški (LTU) and Andzs Flaks (LAT) are also not coming.

 

Among the women previous winners Janelle Uibokand and Liisa Ehrberg will be in Denmark. Mari-Liis Mõttus also cannot participate, as she competes in the Czech Republic.

 

However, this does not mean that there are no strong riders in Estonia! Last year's top three men are present: Gert Kivistik, Mihkel Räim and Gert Jõeäär. It is likely that the fight for the top spot will be between these guys. Professional cyclist Tanel Kangert is also on the start list, but his participation is still not certain.

 

However, the most surprising winner will be in the women's category, because the cards are very open due to the lack of strong mountain bikers. Strong road cyclist Kristel Sandra Soonik, who won silver medal at this year's Ladies Tour of Estonia, is expected to start. Ernesta Tubyte (LTU), who finished third last year, and Laura Lepasalu, who has a lot of experience in international races, are also coming. In addition, Hanna Karoline Taaramäe, wife of professional cyclist Rein Taaramäe, who is this year's Estonian Champion in the time trial, has also confirmed her participation.

 

"The announcement of the winner of this year's MTB Marathon will certainly be spectacular and possibly unexpected. It will be definitely more exciting for the spectators, who we hope to see along the course and at the finish cheering for them," states the chief of Tartu MTB Marathon, Indrek Kelk.

 

Tartu MTB Marathon starts on September 17 with kids races in Tartu Tähtvere Sports Park, where the distances are 500 m - 5.1 km according to age. Additional information can be found HERE.

 

On September 18, riders will start in waves for distances of 89 and 40 km from Tehvandi Stadium and 21 km from Palu. More information about the 25th Tartu MTB Marathon can be found HERE, tracks and schemes HERE.