Today saw the Opening Ceremony of the 2013 MTBO WOC and JWOC in the town of Rakvere, Estonia.  The weather turned on a charm and allowed 261 competitors form 26 countries to march into the town centre and witness the opening ceremony. Everyone enjoyed seeing the local statue being transformed from a local boy pushing a bike to suddenly being a mountain bike orienteer.

The Australian team earlier today had a model event to prepare themselves for the sprint race being held on Tuesday the 27th.  The athletes spent the time riding as many of the different tracks to get a feel for the Estonian terrain and mapping style.  In Europe we are very lucky to get the opportunity to race semi urban sprints but it is one that doesn’t allow us to practice to often.

The sprint race in Tapa will commence 11.00am Estonian Time.  The Australian start times are as follows:

Junior Men

Karl Withers 11.17

Angus Robinson 12.09

Tom Goddard 12.31

Senior Men

Callum Fagg  11.03

Ricky Thackray  11.31

Alex Randall  12.19

Chris Firman 13.01

Senior Women

Carolyn Jackson 11.36

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