Day 5 of the VIA Race brings altitude, attitude, and a flurry of strategic gambles. Riders face the Kühtai climb and beyond, choosing between the classic Brenner Pass or the brutal beauty of Timmelsjoch — shifting the race’s highest point entirely. Some head straight to Refuge 1 for warmth, food, and precious charging time, while others roll the dice and press on.

In the women’s race, punctures and brake drama shake up the standings, and the gap tightens once again. We hear from riders at Refuge 1 and on the road, including a bonus chat where VIA Race founder Ian To jumps in with questions for Sam Muscat.

Plus, in our Route History Part III, we travel through Roman trade routes, bear-emblazoned refuges, the thunder of the Rhine Falls, and the watchful shadows of the Black Forest’s Vulture’s Nest.

From dead ends to cake, it’s another unforgettable day on the road.

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