Liv Racing Collective’s Tessa Neefjes wrapped up her final UCI Gravel World Series race of the season with a strong second-place finish at the Alentejo Gravel event in Ourique, Portugal. Neefjes raced the 120 km (75 mile) course that featured steady climbs, descents, and loose gravel sections on her Brava Advanced Pro 0.
To prepare, Neefjes made sure to get comfortable with the conditions ahead of race day. “The race was one big 120 km loop, so I arrived a few days before to do some proper recons,” she explained. “It really helped to know what to expect in terms of surface changes and climbs.”
Neefjes' plan worked as she finished the race in second place. After the race, she reflected, “I’m really happy to finish on the podium at the last UCI Gravel World Series Alentejo Gravel race of the season!” she said. “I loved the beautiful and varied course here in Portugal. Part of it felt like riding through the steppe, while another part reminded me of America.”
She added, “It was a tough route with constant climbs and descents, and the loose gravel made it extra challenging. My lightweight Liv Brava was the perfect choice for this kind of terrain; it handled so well throughout the race.”
“It feels great to head into the winter off-season with such a good feeling. I’m really happy with how the gravel season ended and I’m already looking forward to what’s next.” She continued. Before the final end of her season, Neefjes plans to compete once more at the Dutch Masters of MTB on Sunday November 16th.
