376 kilometers on two wheels: "I had promised myself I wouldn't do it again"

Approximately 2,000 cyclists have crossed the Storebelt in Denmark's longest cycling race today. Some parts of the Storebelt Bridge were closed to allow the cyclists to pass. While traffic with trains and buses was delayed across the country, others chose to take the wheel. The first riders were sent off at 7:30 am for the race from Aarhus to Copenhagen. The journey covers 376 kilometers, 2,400 meters in elevation, and crosses both Lillebælt and Storebælt.

- I've already promised myself I wouldn't do it again the first time I rode it, but here I am happily enough for the second time, says Allan Helgren, as DR encounters him at the first pit stop in Horsens after about 60 kilometers of cycling.

Here, riders can rest and refuel with Nutella and honey spreads, grape sugar, and coffee. The day has just begun.

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A logistical nightmare

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The Aarhus-Copenhagen cycling race is only held every third year. It takes two years to prepare, and along the way, organizers must coordinate with 24 municipalities, eight police districts, the Road Directorate, and 750 volunteers.

Logistically speaking, it's "close to a disaster," says race director Jens Veggerby. And today, things became even more complicated when more race participants were stuck in train traffic.

- But it's worth it, and it's fun to see so many happy people get on their bikes and ride across Denmark, he says.

- We don't have mountains, but we do have a beautiful country and some spectacular bridges, and that's what we use here, he adds.

Today's main attractions are the old Lillebælt Bridge and Storebælt Bridge, both of which are closed to cyclists. Some riders start their journey in Odense, from where they either continue to Copenhagen or Korsør.

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Mark the elements

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At Storebælt Bridge, Claus Robl, who has been cycling from Aarhus, is holding up well despite the slight headwind.

- It's been perfect cycling weather. It could have been 14 degrees and raining, he says.

In Korsør, riders can restock their supplies - citronmånen is in high demand. We meet Claus Robl again, who, after 240 kilometers and two bridges, can definitely feel his legs.

- But it's a fantastic way to see your own country, which you usually only see through a windshield, where you can't feel the wind or the rustling in your ears, he says.

- I'm deeply grateful that we're allowed to do this, he adds.

The first riders finished at 8:55 pm, and the last are expected to cross the finish line at 2:30 am.

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