BEHIND THE SCENES
Race insider

BEHIND THE HERO FIGURE, THEY ARE ORDINARY YET SPECIAL PERSONS

Alojz Poglavc

Winner of the 2017 DOS-RAS Extreme Solo under 50 and general classification categories certainly isn't new to the ultra cycling sport. Remember, he tried DOS-RAS Extreme back in 2015 in men's pairs and then even won flattish SLO24ULTRA 2016 - 24h of racing in Dobrovnik, Slovenia. According to his colleagues behind this always humble and friendly person, that respects brave and proud cyclists that are not afraid to sign up for such an event, is a hard working and disciplined man, with a full time job at Slovenian Railroads. In his spare time, his bike is his greatest joy and he especially loves long, social rides with his club and also enjoys competitive racing. Among other amateur races, he has raced at European and also World Championships. As his meaningful nickname suggests, locomotive, his fitness at 45 is still at admirable level for some hard road races as well as timetrials. However, in 2017 he intentionally didn't apply for UCI license just to prepare for DOS-RAS Extreme.

''The biggest crisis I had was after the second night, on the ascent to Tanca towards Kocevje. Only 70 km to go and the road is flat with headwinds. Your head is turning down and you have to reset it to continue pedaling.''

Unfortunately, after DOS-RAS Extreme 2017 brilliant victory his plans later on in the season didn't work out as shivering with cold and all wet he was forced to abandon Race Around Austria. However, with his brave decision to end the suffering, only caring for his safety and health, this act was meet with applaud among spectators. 

''The most beautiful part of DOS-RAS Extreme 2017 was Vrsic pass, it is truly epic. And of course my home region, trembling with fans, like there is only 10 km to go. My family was waiting for me in Vahta, it was hardest to continue the race then.''

Marko Baloh

Ralph Diseviscourt
aka TEAM DIZZY

''After having completed a couple of ultra-cycling races all over Europe during the last years and also RAAM in 2016, I have to admit that DOS-RAS is definitely not just like the other races for several reasons. I discovered Slovenia for the first time in May this year and immediately felt in love with the beautiful landscapes and the very friendly people living there. You find all terrains in one single country, from the mild seaside to the wild high mountains. The course is very demanding and diversified, and can even be very tough depending on the weather conditions. And don’t underestimate the numerous little steep climbs during the final part of the race in the South of Slovenia. It’s true that the longest and highest climbs are concentrated at the beginning in the northern region, but when you are tired with hundreds of kilometers in your legs, the short hills with 20% will hurt. You have to be a good all-rounder in order to be complete the course successfully. The timing of DOS-RAS in May is also close to perfect for those aiming to compete in RAAM, RAA, Tortour, etc. later in the season. Another important factor for all riders is the very good organization of the race: the new team did an awesome job and is highly motivated to continue improving all aspects of the event. Last but not least, I’ve never encountered such a great enthusiasm around a race: there were people cheering up and supporting riders along the whole course, night and day! The atmosphere is really unique!''

Coming to Slovenia for the first time in May 2017 to race at 10th edition DOS-RAS Extreme, this Luxembourgian, quickly prove his qualities as he was setting a very high pace towards the first TS. He was leading the race with a margin, but soon after, due to brutal weather situation which caused some stomach problems had to paced himself to stay in touch with the leading racers and finishing third in solo category.

With some excellent results in the last few years - having won 2015 Tortour in treacherous conditions , then coming second in 2016 edition and also finishing 2016 RAAM - it is obvious that his career is on the rise. After DOS-RAS Extreme 2017 he later on made another result in Race Around Austria, 2 place, also in brutal conditions.

About his Predmeja climb encounter, where his goals shattered, but made the most out of the race
..."I never gave up a race in my whole career"..."I went there to win this race which was not possible anymore after such a long stop, and this was very tough from a mental point of view to stay motivated and focused."

''In the name of TEAM DIZZY, I would like to tell you how much we appreciated our trip to Slovenia. Friendly people, stunning landscapes and good tasting local beers!''

Ziga Sernec

There are no losers at Race Around Slovenia Extreme. Every finisher is a winner.

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ANDREJ BERGINC, FOUNDER