Within this very fast-paced environment, enduro appeared in the early 2000s. A fully-fledged discipline recognised by the UCI since 2020, enduro events combine the technical elements of downhill with the endurance and speed of cross-country.

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Riders tackle narrow, demanding descents and pedal long uphill distances to connect the stages.

An event usually consists of 3 or 4 timed stages that the riders have to complete within a given time, with a rider starting on the course every 30 seconds. The cumulative time of these stages determines the winner.

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However the EWS is not just for licensed riders. At each event, amateurs are invited to try the discipline and ride the same course as the professionals. They can ride the whole course (EWS100) or part of it (EWS80 or EWS50, where the cyclists ride 80 or 50% of the course respectively).

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Crans-Montana sits high in the main valley in the Valais region, and its south facing slopes offer up a stunning selection of trails that incorporate everything from natural singletrack through to bike park. Lift access means that riders are able to make the most of the area’s elevation - with trails taking in a huge 2330m of descent. The venue is famed for its dry and warm climate, creating true hero dirt for racing.

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Watch the highlights from last years race...