There was a hotly debated finish to the Mammoth 26K trail race that marked the end of the regular Golden Trail World Series before the grand final scheduled for October 17th in Switzerland.
After a grueling and highly technical 16.1 miles and 3,900ft+ feet of vertical gain, it came down to Elhousine Elazzaoui (Morraco) and Philemon Kiriago (Kenya) in an all out sprint through the village at Mammoth.
There was contact made and Kiriago very nearly hit a rock wall but managed to stay on his feet. Controversy swirled as to whether Elazzaoui intentionally body checked Kiriago and blocked the path and whether or not he should be penalized. It was later determined by the race director there was no foul play and Elazzaoui was declared the winner.
Here is the race director’s decision:
Elhousine held his line by taking the inside of the turn, the shortest trajectory. Patrick attempted to pass him on the right, even though the turn was also curving to the right. Had he chosen to pass on the left, he likely would have won the race. After reviewing the facts, no penalty is issued to Elhousine.
In coming weeks they will meet again in southern Switzerland. Lets hope there is a good clean race at the grand final.
Mammoth 26K Course:
Mammoth 26K Full Replay: