"Just getting to the start line will be a huge win for me," De Crescenzo said on social media the day before the race, highlighting her comeback from a serious injury to compete at the US Gravel National Championships.
In a strong performance, Lauren Stephens completed the 131.5-mile course in a remarkable 6:31:44, 14 minutes faster than the inaugural race last year, solidifying her elite status.
With a fast course and dry conditions, the top finishers were relatively close, with De Crescenzo finishing just a minute and a half behind Stephens.
The race's challenges were evident as notable athletes like Jenna Rinehart and Emily Newsom faced difficulties, with Rinehart crashing and Newsom withdrawing due to fatigue.
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