Other factor is competitive entry and route planning for TCR. Means riders have to give it a lot more thought before riding and ones who obviously don't have a clue can be weeded out.
Knowing that you've got a place and others haven't can give a tiny bit more motivation in dark hours...
I must have been thinking of 2015 when even @skinny scratched.
The length and duration of the TABR must contribute. It is around 60% further. More scope for injury and illness.
JJ Cruz is now only 100 miles from the end and Gordon Waller only 62 miles away. I would expect both to finish today.
Jeff Stamerjohn hasn't moved for three days.
Doug Haluza is making slow and steady progress.