Race Recap - Experience Report

Wexl Kids Enduro Race 2024

That's how it was...

Wexl Kids Enduro 2024: More than just a race – an adventure for young mountain bikers!

On September 28, 2024, over 200 children and teenagers transformed the Wexl Trails in St. Corona am Wechsel into an action-packed mountain bike festival. Participants from Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia demonstrated that they are not only physically but also mentally fit. From the youngest at just three years old to the experienced 16-year-old riders in the U17 category – each one gave their best on the stages. For many, it was more than just a race, as organizer Lisa Ribarich emphasizes: "The eyes of the children when they are at the starting line tell it all – it's not just about placements, but about the pure joy of biking." 

Enduro: The perfect race for all-rounders 

During the enduro race, the kids have to manage their strength both uphill and downhill correctly. Only the time on the downhill sections, the "stages", counts towards the ranking. But before hitting the track, there is still time for one or two tips, as Peter, an experienced enduro rider and guide of the U11 group, reports: "The kids exchange views on all sorts of things while going uphill, from their holiday experiences to tricks they've learned on the jumpline. However, as soon as it gets serious, they talk about the perfect gear choice or which ranking they are aiming for." 

A unique experience for all age groups 

While the youngest racer in the U5 category waited with bright eyes at the start for "Three, two, one – go!", the U17 provided particularly exciting moments. Host Martin was impressed by the professionalism of the youth: "It's amazing how focused the kids approach each stage. In the end, it's always exciting to hear whether their race strategy worked out." 

  The challenges were not left behind - the organization also faced a major task. "This year we had so many registrations that we had to expand the participation quota by 50 places," Lisa says. But thanks to the support of over 60 helpers, sponsors, and committed parents, the event was carried out smoothly. 

More than just racing – team spirit and community 

In the last curve, which was relocated to a challenging grass slalom this year, the spectators saw very different emotions. "Some kids had a broad grin on their faces, others were annoyed by small mistakes. But everyone was relieved and proud to have made it," recalls organizer Ellis. 

  And after the race? Not only the podium places were celebrated. "We are particularly proud that the 4th and 5th places also receive prizes - because joy in sports is our priority," said Lisa. Some of the lottery winners were already thinking of others: "A boy who won a helmet immediately said he would give it to his cousin," Astrid from the start number distribution reported. 

Parents and organizers in harmony 

"The race was perfectly organized and we especially liked the relaxed, child-friendly atmosphere," says Horst, father of Constantin (U11). "For my three children, it was the highlight of the year," adds Paddy, another proud dad. 

The Wexl Kids Enduro has once again demonstrated why St. Corona am Wechsel is considered a hotspot for young mountain bikers. Racers, families, and organizers agree: It was a day full of excitement, community, and action! 

Live Report & Race Insights

08:00 AM: The big day begins

It's early morning, the sun is struggling through the clouds, and the first young racers are arriving. The tension? You could almost feel it. At the start number distribution, one witty comment follows another: “Mom, just say what you want already!” – “I want my start number, please!” A little girl who receives the number 5 whispers to her mother: “Wow, if I come fifth, is that good?” – The atmosphere? Absolutely charming. 

09:15 AM: The stage belongs to the U5 kids

While Lisa Ribarich, the race director, gives final instructions, the U5 racers are already on their bikes, ready — full of energy and with bright eyes. The starting scene could hardly be more exciting: "Three, two, one — and go!" The kids shoot off like little rockets. And this is where the thrill comes, reminding Lisa of her first races at 10 years old: "The event stress always pays off," she says with a smile, as the next little hero hits the track. 

11:30 AM: Peter's Chat Group – On the Way to the Summit

Now it's getting really interesting: The U11 kids, led by Peter, are making their way up the long climb to the first stage. But instead of silent suffering, there's chatter going on! Peter grins: "Uphill, the kids talk about everything – from their vacations to the craziest stunts on the jumpline. Hard to believe we're at a race here!" The chat quickly becomes more serious as the last few meters to the start approach: "Which gear is best for the start?" – "I think I'll be seventh if I give it my all now!" You can practically feel the tension here. 

14:00: The decision in the final curve

The sun is now shining brightly, but that doesn't stop anyone. The finish line has become the scene of emotions. A racetrack? Sure, but the last curve leads over a meadow—a slalom that requires finesse. The spectators hold their breath, because this is where everything is decided! Some grin, others are annoyed about a small mistake. "But it doesn't matter," calls Ellis, who is standing at the finish line, "they are all winners because they made it!" 

4:00 PM: Tombola and big prizes

The atmosphere at the raffle? Simply amazing! A little boy wins a helmet, and his first reaction is: "Wow, I'll give it to my cousin!" The laughter just won't stop. And even among the older kids, there's celebration—whether they came in fourth or tenth, the mood is exuberant. "Dude, I won handlebars!" exclaims another one beaming in the crowd. The prizes aren't just for the winners but for everyone who participated. What a finale! 

5:00 PM: The big conclusion

Martin, the moderator, sums it up perfectly at the end of the day: "It's fascinating how focused the kids approach the stages. And then there are the incredible emotions at the finish line. It's not just talented bikers here, but also kids who cheer each other on, motivate, and just have fun. That's what makes this day so special!" 

And here we are, after a day full of excitement, action, and stories. The Wexl Enduro Kids Race Day 2024 has once again proven that it's not just about winning – it's about the fun, the community spirit, and the joy of being part of this incredible event. St. Corona am Wechsel? Clearly, the place to be for young bikers! 

The race organization is definitely motivated. Next year there is supposed to be another Wexl Enduro Kids Race.

Immediately mark the date in the calendar, it will be September 27, 2025!

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