Tom Pagès is preparing for the world's biggest beach race as the French freestyle motocross star takes on a daunting new endurance challenge at the Enduropale du Touquet event in January.

35-year-old Pages is best known for the multiple X-Games and Red Bull X-Fighters winning rides but with less FMX competitions in 2020 has taken the chance to broaden his skills into beach racing.

It’s hugely popular off-shoot or hybrid of enduro and motocross within France which has its own series – won in 2020 by Nathan Watson.

Enduropale du Touquet is iconic among the beach races and invades the Northern French seaside town each year and claims to be the inspiration for the famous Dakar Rally after the inaugural edition way back in 1975.

The first event attracted 286 competitors while to 2021 event is set to attract over 1,000 professional and amateur enduro riders for the three-hour race on the 13km course.

Making the switch to sand racing and a three-hour enduro, Pages is getting to grips with some of the realities. “I need to get used to riding with a new type of neoprene gloves, which change my feelings on the throttle.” Tom explains. “Also a camel bag in my back because we need a lot of water throughout the race: hydration is key and, if you are thirsty, it's already too late and you are in danger.”

No offence is meant but, sure thing Tom! #thisisenduro

Enduropale Le Touquet is on January 22-24, 2021.

More information: www.enduropaledutouquet.fr

Photo Credit: Red Bull