It looked like rain. And it did.

Nonetheless, several hearty fellows made their merry ways to that happy place in the woods. While about a dozen riders lined up at the iconic (probably) Split Rail Fence for the first SOL of 2024, only about 75% would make it to the end.

Blame it on the torrential rain or the rapid pace, a few riders turned back, leaving just seven “official” finishers of the very fake race.

Porter Kochis, Ed Rogers, and John O’Hearn were head, shoulders, knees and toes (knees and toes) above the rest, and it was clear as soon as the bunch hit the CC Climb. Behind Sody Covis and Hanyon Carris chased (and duked it out) for fourth, but the lead trio was out of sight in a hurry.

O’Hearn ultimately finished solo in third, leaving Kochis to outspring Rogers by a bike length and so take glory of the evening.

Next week is DROP BAR NIGHT, with double-points on offer for anyone and everyone starting and finishing on drops.

You can check the WorldTour standings and weekly results right hurr.