Jordan Schleck retains title at 2025 LOOP Safari Gravel series opener
Reading Time: 2min | Sun. 02.02.25. | 17:16
The second leg takes place in Machakos on 8 March
Two-time LOOP Safari Gravel Series champion Jordan Schleck successfully defended his title in the 120-kilometre elite race at the first leg of the 2025 LOOP Safari Gravel Series, held at Tatu City.
Schleck delivered a commanding performance, clinching the top spot with a remarkable time of 3:42:06.
He was closely followed by Charles Kagimu, who finished second at 3:42:07, with Bernard Ndungu securing third place with a time of 3:42:57.
"Winning here again means a lot to me,” Schleck said after his win. “The competition was intense, and I had to push myself to the limit.
“It was a bit muddy due to the recent rains and that made it even more challenging.”
Schleck said that his experience during the last edition came in handy adding: “I understood the route and terrain even better. This race just shows that we have growing talent in our region, and I’m proud to be part of it.”
In the women’s elite category, Xaverine Nirere emerged victorious, clocking an incredible time of 4:06:05.
Nyirahabimana Claudette and Aleper Mary finished in second and third positions with times of 4:27:04 and 4:32:01, respectively.
Meanwhile, David Carolll claimed top position in the 60-kilometre race, clocking 2:04:22.
Following him in second and third were Godfrey Gitonga (2:10:43) and Henrik Pedersen (2:14:07).
The first leg of the series witnessed an impressive turnout of over 500 elite and recreational cyclists from across East Africa, who braved the challenging terrain and scenic plains of Tatu City.
The top five winners in the elite 120-kilometre race for both men and women were awarded cash prizes of Ksh20,000, Ksh15,000, Ksh10,000, Ksh7,000, and Ksh5,000 respectively.
Additionally, victorious teams earned generous prize money of Ksh125,000, Ksh100,000, and Ksh70,000 for the first, second, and third positions.
With the first leg in Tatu City setting the bar high, all eyes now turn to the next instalment of the series in Machakos on 8 March, Naivasha on 14 June, and Vipingo on 23 August.
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