As I mentioned in my last post, I needed a few days at home after the trip to South Korea to process the disappointment and recover. But my focus quickly shifted to the races ahead. The European World Cup opener in Nové Město and Leogang showed that I’m heading in the right direction. Now, one of the highlights of the season is coming up with the race in Lenzerheide.
Unfortunately, I caught a cold in the days leading up to Nové Město na Moravě. So I travelled to the Czech Republic feeling less than 100 per cent, but my motivation was still high.
I mainly used the Short Track to see how my body would respond to the intensity. The test went well and gave me confidence for Sunday’s Cross-Country race. I already felt much better there. Despite a mechanical issue during the first half of the race, I stayed focused and found my rhythm more and more as the race went on. In the end, I finished 12th, just outside the top ten. Above all, the feeling on the bike was very encouraging.
Leogang delivered once again
Leogang has been one of my favourite races for many years. The course suits me well, even though there were some changes to the layout this year. Heavy rain in the days leading up to the event made conditions difficult to predict, but by the time of the men’s race on Sunday, the course had dried out enough to provide fair racing conditions.
After a solid Short Track race (12th place), I was able to start the Cross-Country race from the second row. I didn’t have the best start, but I managed to work my way forward throughout the race. Of course, my expectations in Leogang were higher, but I am satisfied with sixth place. The race confirmed that I’m moving in the right direction and that things are progressing well.
The next step comes in Lenzerheide
My full focus is now on Lenzerheide. Our home race is one of the most important events of the season for both the team and myself. The crowds in the finish arena and around the course always make it something special for us Swiss riders. Racing in front of a home crowd and feeling the support along the course gives me extra energy. The form is there, motivation is high, and I am looking forward to the coming days in the mountains of Graubünden.
Yours, Math
