2025 Belgian Waffle Ride Series
United States >> 2026 Belgian Waffle Ride Series >> Olympic Medalist Batten and Finsterwald Claim Victory at Scorching 2026 BWR Arizona
 
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Olympic Medalist Haley Batten and Russell Finsterwald Claim Victory at Scorching 2026 BWR Arizona

In searing 90°F heat, Olympic silver medalist Haley Batten (Specialized Factory Racing) and veteran Russell Finsterwald (LOOK) emerged victorious at the opening round of the 2026 USA Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR) gravel series. Batten dominated the 131-mile women’s field to take a solo win while Finsterwald out-sprinted Canada’s Andrew L’Esperance to secure the men’s title.

Olympic Medalist Haley Batten and Russell Finsterwald Claim Victory at Scorching 2026 BWR Arizona

Battling blistering temperatures and rugged desert terrain north of Phoenix, 27-year-old Batten broke clear from her rivals and soloed to a commanding victory in 5:58:13, crossing the line with a roughly 12-minute advantage. Haley Smith (6:11:22) and Cecile Lejune (6:11:48) followed to complete the podium, with Alexis Skarda (6:19:58) and Holly Henry (6:36:32) rounding out the top five. Batten’s performance marked her first BWR gravel title and showcased her strength and endurance on a course that tested both climbing and technical skills.
 
On the men’s side, 34-year-old Russell Finsterwald won a tightly contested finish, clocking 5:17:38 after a high-paced day in the desert. Andrew L’Esperance pushed the pace to the line but came up just short in the sprint. Norway’s Torbjorn Andre secured third in 5:21:42, with Lunchbox Racing teammates Julien Gagne (5:23:32) and Andrew Dillman (5:25:08) finishing fourth and fifth. The men’s race featured aggressive attacks and long stretches of solo efforts, but ultimately came down to a select group contesting the final dash.
 
“Racing in this heat and on this terrain was a real test,” said Haley Batten. “I felt strong and chose the right moments to push. Crossing the line solo after such a hard day is an incredible feeling, and it’s a great start to the BWR season.”
 
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The event drew a deep field of gravel specialists, road racers and mountain bikers looking to measure themselves on one of North America’s toughest gravel courses. Organizers noted that rider safety remained a top priority amid the high temperatures, with on-course support and hydration stations strategically placed. The BWR Arizona stop sets the tone for the 2026 series, highlighting the continued crossover appeal of gravel racing and the rising profile of elite athletes competing across disciplines.
 
The Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR) is a premier gravel racing series in the United States that blends challenging routes with a spirited event atmosphere. Known for long, varied courses and fierce competition, BWR events attract professional and amateur riders from around the world. Each race is designed to test endurance, bike-handling and strategy across mixed terrain.

2026 BWR Arizona Women's Top 5

1- Haley Batten
2- Haley Smith
3- Cecile Lejeune
4- Alexis Skarda
5- Holly Henry

2026 BWR Arizona Men's Top 5

1- Russell Finsterwald
2- Andrew L’esperance
3- Torbjorn Andre Roed
4- Julien Gagne
5- Andrew Dillman