“I didn’t want to go for the 24h race, because I did the European Championship two weeks ago and the Ultra Word Champs are to begin in 10 days, so there is not enough time to rest,” Strasser said.
Unfortunately a nasty crash in the last of the 12 hours spoiled what would have been a perfect race otherwise, leaving man and machine with a nasty road rash and a broken shifter. Still Christoph showed guts and put in an amazing solo ride during that last hour. “Basically, I had three options after that crash. One – I could have just retired from the race because my lead was big enough anyway. Two – I could have paused for one lap and then joined the pack of the relay riders. Three – I could simply get on the bike again and ride as hard as I can,” Strasser explained. Christoph decided for the latter, pushing himself to the limits and scoring faster lap times than the lead group with the winning relays.
All in all he covered 417 km on a very selective course during 12 hours of non-stop (!!!) riding, Christoph was supported by his younger brother Phillip, who has been in charge of coaching Christoph since he started his cycling careers and who knows exactly about the likes and needs and of his elder brother.
“For me the race was probably as hard as a 24h race. The course was quite difficult and I decided to go flat out and not sulk on the wheels of the relay teams. I wanted to take my share of work in the race and worked a lot at the front. This makes the whole thing more strenuous but I like to be in control and set a good pace. I was riding on my limit for 12 hours and I enjoyed it.” said Strasser after crossing the finish line.
the race was started at 9pm
Strasser pushing very hard
riding on the selective course
crossing the finish line after 12h
Beitrag vom 17.December 2008
Be well :)