British off-road hero Graham Jarvis (Rockstar Energy Husqvarna) raced to an early lead in the Red Bull Romaniacs, emerging from yesterday’s first full stage with a slim 42-second advantage over Manuel Lettenbichler after over five hours in the saddle.
After finishing Tuesday’s time trial in fourth, Jarvis – a six-time Romaniacs champion – was in charge over the super-technical course featuring brutal sections including Olt Up, Sheepfarmer and the daunting Titanic.
“I think I still have speed but I don’t know if my body will be able to last over the five days,” reckoned Grimbo. “It’s been a problem that I felt in the past years because I am 45 years old now and my body gets tired – fitness wise I’m on top form.”
Defending champion Lettenbichler stayed in touch as the pair overhauled early pace-setter Billy Bolt (Rockstar Energy Husqvarna) from Britain. South African Wade Young (Sherco) – the 2018 Romaniacs winner – eventually slotted into third but ended the day 4:20 behind Jarvis with Bolt and Spain’s Alfredo Gomez (Rockstar Energy Husqvarna) staying in contention in fourth and fifth.
Today’s stage is being fought out in Alba County where the world’s top off-road racers face a punishing 110km course.
