Sauvage Squad @Traka 360 2025

Lorenzo and Michele are Sauvage's newest recruits, with a solid background in road racing. The Traka seems tailor-made for them: a technical and demanding challenge, where every pedal stroke is a step towards the finish line, to be reached in the shortest possible time. They certainly aren't lacking in determination, and as they gain experience on gravel, they're becoming names to keep an eye on... especially if you enjoy scrolling through the standings.

Nick was the surprise of the year. More for him, perhaps, than for us. An all-round athlete, from mountaineering to cycling, he tackled the 360 ​​km with less than 1,000 km under his belt since the start of 2025, but with a light-hearted, cheerful spirit, which ultimately paid off.

Mattia and I consider ourselves organizers rather than athletes. I've never been one, and he's already made his own journey and has transitioned into a mentor. But we still enjoy experiencing each experience firsthand, to truly understand it. For us, The Traka isn't just race day, but everything that comes before: the preparation, the logistics, the team management. Our goal is to see the smiling faces of those who shared this adventure.

This year, in addition to the athletes, we also had a real crew: friends and girlfriends who were not only fantastic company during moments of relaxation, but a real team, ready to support us along the way.

This year's course was drier than last year's. A few light showers didn't dampen the atmosphere. The level at the start was incredibly high, and that excites us: so many young people from all over the world, a mix of languages, faces, and stories. This is the beating heart of gravel: it appeals to young men, young women, anyone who wants to challenge themselves.

360 km of true gravel, with very little asphalt and even fewer moments of respite. The elevation gain isn't monstrous, but it's noticeable, with gradients always at the limit of pedaling (at least for me!). The long flat stretches test the mind even more than the legs. The Traka must be managed, you have to know yourself well: don't overdo it, but don't hold back too much either. It requires technical preparation as well as physical: knowing your bike, knowing how to choose the right lines, and dealing with every unexpected event independently. The only external resources are the three feed zones scattered along the course. Every mistake is paid for, and dearly. This, for us, is the true gravel race. Like Hills , you may or may not like it, but it certainly fascinates.

These were intense and beautiful days, immersed in the unique atmosphere of Girona, where gravel is more than a sport: it's a culture that permeates every alleyway. Another experience we'll take with us, one that will enrich us for our next adventures.

Thanks to the entire squad, from the athletes to the chaperones. Everyone brought their best side to the table, helping us travel light, fast, and with a smile. A Spanish holiday we'll never forget.

See you on the next adventure!

Words: Fabio Conti - Photographs: Andrea Pialorsi