Uttendorf - Matrei in Osttirol is the climbing Classic race of Division 7.
   In just a few days the 7th edition will take place, and lots of cycling fans are arriving from all over the globe, gathering throughout the course of the race.
   It is not a long race, only just over 100 km... but the riders will suffer in the legs every km.
   Uttendorf - Matrei in Osttirol has the toughest climbs, not only of its Division 7, but of all of OCM. The only race that matches this difficulty in terms of tough climbing sections is the Top Division Alpe d`Huez Classic, however Uttendorf - Matrei in Osttirol has even less flat sections, and has more hilly and very technical sections where the riders need to be mentally strong, or a simple distraction can prove dangerous.
   Its hard for the riders, but great for the crowd. Fans have the chance to literally walk with the front of the race, and see the group of favorites diminish one by one as they fade away... Thankfully the organization has ambulances ready at strategic places throughout the race, ready for anything.
  

The fans like it, but the riders not so much.... First edition was won by Isak Dammen (nrk), nest season yet another big name won it: Werner de Bode (Ursus RT). From there on, fewer and fewer big names show up... its just too hard for the prize money some say.
   This season however some big names did show up, and promise to spice up the things and who knows, maybe retire with some last glory?
   The biggest name is certainly Darell Randel (Burgos 2016 4Ever), former winner of the Alpe d`Huez Classic that will try to be the first one to win the two toughest climbing classics.
   Lúcio Semedo (Penicos Avulso) is also someone thinking about a happy retirement, and he might very well try his luck here.
   Pierre Theijs (WOE) is also fast approaching retirement, and after a very successful season for wild mountain team he will do anything to keep the pace at his new team.
   But not only 30+ age riders want to win... very young guns see in this race their opportunity to grab some publicity, and well earned respect, that will put the eyes of the cycling

world in them for the future.
   Sérgio Ribas (Jumentus CT) is only 22 years old, has already 12 results in his short career, but he would trade them all for the glory of this classic that can put him in the mouth of the world.
   Ismael Perahia (Sprint Salamanca) is also only 22 years old, but on the other hand has yet to get his first result...
   Will this be the one?
   Toby Rolè (BOBGrifter) will be also looking for his first result, and at an age of 24 it can't be too far.
   With enough experience, skill and support, Zack Faughn (SD Shift) and Paulino Zubeldia (Ancha Castilla) might be on the pole position for the final victory, but has we have seen it won't be an easy task.
  
   If you enjoy cycling, you can't miss this.
   Uttendorf - Matrei in Osttirol, Saturday 10:40 17/11-2012 GMT
   Live on East Tirol, and on a computer close to you.
  
  
  
   Written by freelancer Matt Murdock to the OCM Magazine