Pogačar’s ‘Pogi Challenge’: British Amateur Outsprints World Champion
In the world of cycling, it’s not every day that an amateur rider finds themselves in the same race as a world champion. This past weekend, in the picturesque setting of Komenda, Slovenia, 40-year-old British rider Andrew Feather turned heads when he finished ahead of Tadej Pogačar during the highly anticipated “Pogi Challenge.” This mass-start ride not only showcased cycling camaraderie but also highlighted the unique thrill of racing with the best.
A Race Like No Other
The Pogi Challenge, named after the Slovenian superstar, attracted nearly 900 participants eager to take on a 23-kilometer course that culminated in the grueling 13.9-kilometer Krvavec climb. Just a day after Pogačar dazzled fans with a stunning performance at Il Lombardia, he stepped onto the starting line with a fierce reputation in tow. But this time, the stakes felt different.
The race kicked off with Feather drawing an early lead, ultimately managing to create enough distance to stay ahead of Pogačar—at least for a while. “I kept on looking over my shoulder thinking he was going to come up at some point, but he didn’t – he didn’t manage to catch me,” Feather shared, reveling in the thrilling experience of holding off cycling royalty for an impressive almost two-minute gap.
The Unlikely Challenger
While Pogačar is a beast on the bike, Feather isn’t just any casual participant. A four-time UK hill-climb champion, he demonstrated formidable skill and discipline with an average power output of approximately 400 watts—or 6.2 W/kg—on the climb. However, even this impressive feat paled compared to Pogačar, who clocked in at a blistering pace of around 7 W/kg.
“It just shows you that he’s in a completely different class,” said Feather, acknowledging the sheer athleticism of the world champion. Still, the thrill of direct comparison was enough to elate him. “It’s amazing just to have that absolute direct comparison to the best rider at the moment. Maybe ever as well.”
A Show of Sportsmanship
Pogačar, known for his humility as much as his competitive nature, took the “defeat” in stride. He acknowledged Feather’s accomplishment graciously on the Tour 202 podcast, stating, “I tried to catch everyone, but I couldn’t. Hats off to the winner.” This acknowledgment speaks volumes about Pogačar’s character and his respect for fellow cyclists, regardless of their experience level.
The Takeaway
For cycling enthusiasts, Feather’s experience serves as an exciting reminder that dedication, passion, and hard work can open doors to incredible encounters. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or just starting out, every ride holds the potential for surprising memories and inspiration. So lace up your shoes, hit the roads, and remember—every champion was once an amateur with a dream.
Next time you mount your bike, think about those thrilling moments like Feather’s. What will your next ride bring? The rush of an uphill battle? Perhaps even a chance encounter with greatness? Let’s find out!
Original article: Click here
