Jackson and Smith fastest at Anaconda Enduro

While eyes have been focused on racing in the Northern hemisphere in recent weeks, some racers down under were busy contesting the seven-stage Anaconda MTB Enduro in and around Alice Springs, Australia. Adrian Jackson and Imogen Smith took home the overall wins for the men and women last week.

Jackson, who set up his event win with a solid first stage, was pleased with his form this week. His consistency in placing in each stage contributed to his overall first place, and he attributed the win to mental toughness and the ability to concentrate and push himself in the tricky conditions. Jackson took home the AUS$2,500 in prize money.

In fact, the race proved to be a family affair for him with his mother Carolyn, winning the Vintage women's category and his sister Melinda, placing high amongst the open women.

The men's racing saw plenty of excitement with several stage winners and a few of the top men overcoming crashes and injuries. In the end, Jackson finished with an overall time of 11.38.25. Perren Delacour was second at 3'40" and Matthew Fleming finished third at 7'03".

Naomi Hansen enjoyed some time in the lead women's jersey, but Imogen Smith got to take it home. In the final stage, Smith had a bit of a scare, thinking she had lost her way, but then found a marker pointing her to the finish.

See Cyclingnews' full coverage of the Anaconda MTB Enduro or check out some video coverage.