Even with a few days of acclimatization to altitude, a team that’s based at a sea level location will still be vulnerable to the effects of a 12,000 ft elevation gain. As has been the case with many teams from similar elevations during this race, Team Strong Machine began to suffer from some of the classic signs of mild altitude sickness.

Heading out onto a massive bike section, the team have made the wise decision not to push themselves any further. Racing fatigued is one thing, but trying to go fast at night on a sour stomach and a pounding headache is nigh on impossible.

As of 12:00am, Team Strong Machine has unfortunately retired from the race. They have been transported to a lower elevation where they are comfortably resting and recovering.

LAST UPDATE: Team Strong Machine was at the post race celebration feeling much better. As soon as they reached a lower elevation the symptoms began to quickly subside. After a shower and a nap, they’re headed out for the rest of their vacation :)