Mona Mitterwallner Secures Victory at Nové Město XCO World Cup
Nové Město na Moravě, Czech Republic – Mona Mitterwallner of Mondraker Factory Racing XC triumphed at the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike Series XCO World Cup on Sunday, showcasing a remarkable performance in a hard-fought race.
The Decisive Sprint
The race culminated in a thrilling two-way sprint where Mitterwallner edged out New ZealandS Samara Maxwell from the Decathlon Ford Racing Team. Maxwell, despite a valiant effort, was forced to accept second place. Candice Lill of South Africa crossed the finish line 25 seconds later, securing third place.
Pieterse’s Setback
Puck Pieterse of alpecin-Deceuninck, the reigning world champion and winner of the previous day’s short track event, faced an unfortunate mechanical issue. This setback relegated her to a 13th-place finish, 1 minute and 59 seconds behind the leader.
Mitterwallner’s Reaction
Overcome with emotion, Mitterwallner expressed her joy after the race: I can’t really describe it. It has been a long time to be on the top of the UCI World Cup podium, and to do it in Nové Mĕsto Na Moravě, the most original place of cross-country. I have always dreamed of it, and I really can’t believe it.
She also acknowledged the team’s dedication, stating, The team worked super hard. It is indeed never easy to start a new project,but everyone was super motivated. We are having a good time too.
Race Dynamics
Jenny Rissveds of canyon CLLCTV XCO initially led a group of seven riders at the end of the start loop. Pieterse then surged to the front, followed closely by Rissveds, nina Graf of Lapierre Racing Unity, and other top contenders.
By the end of the first lap, Alessandra Keller of Thömus Maxon and Lill were the only riders able to maintain contact with Pieterse. rebecca Henderson of the Orbea Fox Factory Team and Maxwell trailed by just 10 seconds.
Mechanical Issues and Final Lap Drama
Pieterse’s mechanical issue occurred on the third lap in the rock garden, causing her to lose significant ground. Despite her efforts to recover,she couldn’t regain her position at the front before the final lap.
Keller, Lill, and Maxwell formed a leading trio, later joined by Henderson, who was returning from an injury, and Mitterwallner.
The final lap saw Maxwell launch an attack, creating a gap over Mitterwallner. Though, misfortune struck when her bike became entangled in course meshing, forcing her to unclip and cede the lead to Mitterwallner.
maxwell fought back valiantly, but Mitterwallner entered the home straight with a two-second advantage, ultimately holding off maxwell to secure the victory.
Results
Full results are available via FirstCycling.
