Strategery! It's a part of the sport. Not just athleticism and skill and not even just the gut check that's integral to cross.

Trying different approaches to obstacles throughout a race looking for the fastest way through is part of it. Accepting the occasional crash is part of that.

One of the things I've loved about watching Sven Nys is seeing him ride along with the lead pack until the last two laps then he breaks out some sick move to clear an obstacle to start his attack. It's part of the game. Knowing if your brain is still sufficiently oxygenated to hop a barrier is another.