Elle Anderson Storms to Win at Gran Prix of Gloucester, Day 1 – Report, Results and Photos

Elle Anderson leading early on. © Todd Prekaski

Elle Anderson (Cal Giant) used a last lap surge to first drop Helen Wyman (Kona), then Crystal Anthony (CyclocrossWorld) and then finally Gabby Durrin (Rapha Focus) to continue her impressive winning streak at Day 1 of the 2013 Great Brewers Gran Prix of Gloucester. Her win, following two impressive wins on day 1 and day 2 of the Trek CXC Cup, proved that her performance last weekend was no fluke.

Last year’s winner, Helen Wyman, in the lead. © Todd Prekaski

With a strong showing of top-level racers, the Elite women’s race was anything but decided. Bets were on Helen Wyman (Kona Factory Racing) who took the helm immediately. The crowd waited for the European Cyclocross Champion’s signature move: riding away from the field early for a decisive win of thirty seconds; however, Gabby Durrin (Rapha-FOCUS), Elle Anderson (California Giant-Specialized) and Crystal Anthony (Optum Racing p/b Kelly Benefit Strategies) matched Wyman move for move. Caroline Mani (Raleigh Clement) and Meredith Miller (California Giant-Specialized) formed a chase group in an attempt to reel in the leaders, but a fire was lit under the lead group as Anderson made a bold attack with one lap to go.

Gabby Durrin chased but a crash put her in second. © Todd Prekaski

Her gap stuck, the pressure caused Wyman to fall off Durrin and Anthony. Anderson’s hard work paid off, as she crossed the line with a solid lead on Durrin in second and Anthony in third. In fourth was Wyman, with Miller besting Mani for fifth.

“I wasn’t sure how I was feeling, but my legs came around in that last lap,” said Anderson, who works for Strava and cemented her title as QOM for the day. “I really love this race, so this is a very special win for me!” she exclaimed.

Elle Anderson takes the win at Gloucester Day 1. © Todd Prekaski

Anderson, who was featured in Cyclocross Magazine’s “Quick and Dirty” interviews last season, has clearly made the leap into the top echelon of US cyclocrossers.

The Day 1 Women’s Podium. © Todd Prekaski

Relive all the blow-by-blow racing action with the Live Coverage feed, thanks to BtbTV, NEProCX and Cyclocross Magazine on Twitter. 

Click here for the men’s report.

Reports by Cynthia Brennan, Andrew Yee and Molly Hurford

Gloucester Day 1 Elite Womens Results 2013