Although they completed eight hot and physical stages under the Portuguese sun, both Maes (GT Factory Racing) and Isabeau Courdurier (Intense-Mavic Collective) hardly missed any opportunities to strike and thus secured a solid lead over their competitors right from the start.

The third round, EWS powered by Freeride Madeira, saw two days of incredible racing over some of the most diverse trails - from roots and rocks to loamy berms and exposed, steep trails high above the Atlantic. With over 60 kilometers of pedaling and over 3600 meters of descending, the riders were pushed to their limits as they made their way to some of the most remote parts of the island, far from the race village in Machico Marina.

Once again, it was the women's competition that was the closest. Race winner Courdurier finished the race with an impressive lead over second-placed Noga Korem (GT Factory Racing), but Noga was the only woman to also take a stage win. Reigning U21 champion Ella Conolly from Scotland finished on the third step of the podium in her third elite race, despite losing her chain on stage six.

Anita Gehrig had also lost something - air. This ran out early on the last stage. As a result, she lost her third intermediate place. However, her fifth place was anything but a disappointment. After a start to the season that didn't go according to plan, fifth place is a great success and gives her confidence for the next races.
Carolin Gehrig also has renewed hope for future success after delivering a solid race and finishing in twelfth place.

Maes inspired

In the men's race, Belgian Martin Maes' drive to win the overall standings continued unabated. Having only recently signed a contract with Red Bull, he seems to be even more inspired, winning six of the eight downhill stages. His toughest rival, Portuguese rider Jose Borges (Miranda Racing Team), thrilled the home crowd with his best result to date - second place - 32 seconds behind Maes. Canadian Jesse Melamed (Rocky Mountain/Race Face Enduro Team) snatched third place.

The Swiss enduro riders have not yet been able to perform at their best. However, with Maxime Chapuis in 24th place and Gusti Wildhaber in 33rd place, they are not far behind. Patrick Lüthi in 44th place and Silvan Marfurt in 80th place are two more Swiss athletes to finish the competition.

The fourth round of the World Series will take place on June 29 in Canazei in Val di Fassa, Italy.

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