The 2025 edition of the Iberica-Traversa Road Route has its first finisher: Justus Koch. Riding solo and unsupported across 1,812 kilometers with over 28,000 meters of elevation, Justus crossed the finish line in Tarifa after 5 days, 22 hours, and 1 minute on the road – a massive personal achievement in his very first solo ultra-distance bikepacking race.
Though the course record of 5 days, 12 hours, 14 minutes, set by Gosiane in 2024, remains unbroken, Justus’ ride stands out not only for its speed and consistency but for the personal journey it represents.
A Personal Breakthrough
Before the race, Justus wasn’t even sure he could finish. Despite a summer of training in the Alps, climbing countless mountain passes, the challenge of crossing an entire country – from the rugged north to the windswept southern coast – still loomed large. But with a calm, determined strategy and plenty of endurance in reserve, he pushed through every stage, steadily moving up the virtual leaderboard.
He chose to sleep every night along the way – a rare and risky decision in such a competitive race. That is, until the final stage. With Tarifa in sight and the legs still willing, Justus rested for 10 hours and then rode through the night to complete his final push to the finish line.
A Race Against Limits
What makes Justus’ ride so inspiring isn’t just the time on the clock – it’s the mindset behind it. Iberica-Traversa has a reputation for breaking riders long before the final checkpoint. The road route may not follow gravel or remote off-road tracks, but the relentless climbing, exposed terrain, and mental fatigue test every participant to their limit.
For a first-time solo ultra-racer to not only complete the course but to win the race and finish in under six days, all while sticking to a consistent sleep strategy, speaks volumes about his preparation and resilience.
Congratulations, Justus – you’ve earned your place in Iberica-Traversa history.
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