A strong start to the new season for Thömus maxon: at the C1 race in Albenga, Alessandra Keller and Lars Forster both secured second place. The team’s other riders also delivered solid performances in the first form test of the season, contributing to a strong overall team result.
The women’s race on the fast and very rocky course in Albenga started cautiously for Alessandra Keller. After the long start climb, the Nidwalden rider entered the first downhill section in sixth position. From there, she steadily worked her way forward – no easy task on the technically demanding course with its many rocky sections.
Keller uses race as Cape Epic test
In the end, Keller secured second place behind Laura Stigger (AUT), while Sofie Pedersen (DEN) finished third.
“I’m satisfied with the race, which I used as an intense training session and as a form test ahead of my first major goal of the season, the Cape Epic. I’m now heading to South Africa with a good feeling,” Keller said at the finish.
The men’s race developed into an intense and tactical contest from the very beginning, with a high pace throughout. The three Thömus maxon riders were right in the middle of the action. Lars Forster was particularly active, shaping the race from the front for long stretches.
Forster sprints onto the podium
In the final lap, the rider from eastern Switzerland attempted to take the lead once more. However, in the final sprint he was narrowly beaten and finished second behind Mathis Azzaro (FRA), while Simone Avondetto (ITA) took third place.
“I felt very good and tried once more to take the lead in the final lap. Finishing second in such a strong field makes me very happy with my start to the season,” said Forster. Mathias Flückiger also delivered a strong race, finishing sixth after crossing the line within the lead group. Vital Albin was very active early in the race but had to pay the price for the high pace later on and eventually finished 13th.
Next races ahead
The Thömus maxon men will return to action on March 22 at the HC race on Monte Tamaro (TI). Alessandra Keller will already line up at the Cape Epic in South Africa from March 15, where she will compete alongside South African rider Candice Lill.