Røed was the fastest rider in the chase group, finishing 5:33 back of the winner in sixth. Like Røed, Smith lost contact with the lead group in the last third of the race, but both riders have plenty of reason to be proud of their efforts in hot, fast conditions. Smith is coming off a successful and rejuvenating trip to Kenya, where she won the Migration Gravel Series. She’s finding her groove again after battling illness throughout 2024.
“The most damaging aftershock of racing through illness all last year has been a loss of confidence. I didn’t just forget who I was — I learned to be someone else. I’m finally starting to unlearn those limiting beliefs, and we’re seeing progress. Feels good!” Smith wrote after the race. “[Sixth at SBT GRVL] isn’t shiny, but it was a massive personal step for me. I’m honestly stoked on that ride! Thanks everyone for a great weekend.”
