A successful start to the European World Cup summer for Thömus maxon in Nové Město na Moravě: in the Short Track (XCC), the riders showed strong tactics and were regularly present in promising positions. Only a lack of luck prevented top results. Lars Forster narrowly missed out on a top-10 finish, while Alessandra Keller had to end her race after a crash.
The fast course in Nové Město, marked by technical sections, made for a hectic race right from the start, with numerous battles for position. Accordingly, tactics and positioning proved decisive.
Forster just outside the top 10
In the men’s race, the Thömus maxon riders presented themselves alert and consistently well placed towards the front. Lars Forster and Vital Albin in particular impressed with smart race pacing and a strong presence in the leading group.
Forster remained in the fight for a top result until the closing stages, but after contact with a competitor he lost decisive positions and ultimately crossed the line in 18th place. Vital Albin rode a consistent race and finished 29th. Mathias Flückiger returned to racing after recovering from a cold.
“I had very good legs and was able to position myself well. In the end, there was unfortunately contact, which cost me a few places. Nevertheless, I’m happy with my form,” Forster said at the finish.
The victory went to Mathis Azzaro (FRA), ahead of Tom Pidcock (GBR) and Dario Lillo (SUI).
Keller crashes but remains uninjured
In the women’s race, world champion Alessandra Keller contested her first World Cup race of the season in the rainbow jersey. The rider from Nidwalden showed a tactically smart race and stayed in control within the leading group.
Keller was able to follow all changes of pace and looked ready for a top result. At the end of the sixth of eight laps, however, she was touched by a competitor on the finish straight, causing several riders to crash. Keller fortunately remained uninjured, but decided not to continue the race.
“I felt very good and was highly motivated. The crash is of course a pity, but luckily I only have a few abrasions and small bruises. On Sunday, I want to attack again,” Keller said after the race.
The women’s race was won by Puck Pieterse (NED), ahead of Laura Stigger (AUT) and Nicole Koller (SUI).