The new 4.1km man-made Izu XCO course has 180m ascent per lap, and is said to be harder than previous Olympic XCO courses. The course boasts many features, including big rock gardens, drops, and plenty of rocks. Sections to look out for are Amagigoe, Joren-no-taki, Chopsticks, Sakura Drop, Wasabi, Odoriko Trail, Izu Peninsula and Karesansui.
The weather will play a vital role in the outcome of the XCO events, and if the rain comes, the rocks and the grass on the course will be a new element that could make or break an Olympic dream.
MEN’S RACE
Former UCI U23 XCO and e-Bike World Champion, Hatherly takes on the best in World to fulfil his Olympic dream in Tokyo .
10 
Alan Hatherly
Alan HatherlyMonday, 26 July
08h00 – 10h00 SAST
1 Start Loop (1.3km) + 7 Laps (3.85 km) = 28.25km
WOMEN’S RACE
Having proved herself to be a tenacious rider both on and off-road, we look forward to cheering on Candice as she punches out the watts on the challenging IZU XCO course 
Tuesday, 27 July
08h00 – 10h00 SAST
1 Start Loop (1.3km) + 6 Laps (3.85 km) = 24.4km
28 Candice Lill
Candice LillMore information on the startlists, race updates and official reports can be found at olympics.com
Images: JP Jacobs
