Sabrina Jonnier at the Vallnord, Andorra World Cup (Image credit: Luke Webber)
The UCI World Cup will return to Vallnord, Andorra, in 2009 for a gravity-only round on May 16-17. Organizers will keep the same downhill and 4X circuits as last year, but are making some modifications to the courses according to the recommendations of the technical delegates of the UCI and the participants themselves. The goal is to improve access, and create more space for better visibility of the progress of both events.
The first part of the four cross will stay the same, but the second part will see several changes. Three jumps were re-worked as was a plateau followed by a step up and a triple. The final section, still to be completed, will consist of a stem-shaped oblique, followed by an elevated left and a step up to the finish line.
A tree was cleared from the lower portion of the downhill course to increase spectators' visibility. In addition some lines were changed to add more options for the expected 300 competitors.
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Much of the work was completed at the end of the season, before the snow began to fall. The snow pack is expected to help consolidate the recent changes.
For more information on the Vallnord venue, visit www.vallnordbikeparkworldcup.com.
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Sue George is an editor at Cyclingnews. She coordinates all of the site's mountain bike race coverage and assists with the road, 'cross and track coverage.
