The opening day of the Portuguese EnduroGP delivered some surprises and an outstanding performance from American rider Rachel Gutish. The Rieju Factory Team competitor secured her first win of the season by setting the fastest time on four of the nine stages, finishing comfortably over a minute ahead of her closest rival and taking the lead in the championship standings.
British teammate Rosie Rowett finished second, more than a minute behind Gutish, struggling to find the same rhythm she showed in previous round. Completing the podium was another British rider, Nieve Holmes (Sherco), who had a strong day despite two difficult stages, showing the speed needed to contend with her compatriots.
Norwegian Vilde Marie Holt (KTM) narrowly missed the podium by just 1.73 seconds. Holt impressed with two fastest stage times and was expected to perform well in this Portuguese GP. Justine Martel (Beta) rounded out the top five with consistent results and is shaping up as a contender for the podium on the second day.
Junior category winner Lorna Lafont (Sherco) put in a strong performance, finishing sixth overall and now sitting three points behind the category leader. Marine Lemoine returned to the competition with a solid sixth place finish ahead of local favorite Joana Goncalves and Maria San Miguel. In the Junior ranks, Elizabett Davies finished second in the category but retained the championship lead, with Delun Davies completing the Junior podium.
Francesca Nocera, who entered the day as the Women’s championship leader, had a difficult day. Despite posting the fastest times in two of the four special stages, she was forced to retire due to technical issues with her Honda. Nocera aims a good result on day two.
