Luke Wiedmann rewards himself with European Championship silver
At the European Championships in Cheile Grădiștei, Romania, Luke Wiedmann took silver in the XCO race in the U23 category – his greatest international success. At the same time, the Thömus Akros Young Stars team impressed with gold for Monique Halter (U23 XCO) and two silver medals for Lara Liehner (U19 XCC & XCO).
The Continental Championships, which were held for the first time in Cheile Grădiștei, were characterized by rain, mud, cold and a varied and diverse course. The sun only shone on Saturday – together with Luke Wiedmann. Everything fell into place for the 21-year-old in the U23 category race. Behind the unleashed compatriot Finn Treudler, Wiedmann deservedly and overjoyedly took the silver medal.
Not a perfect race for Forster
Lars Forster did not have a perfect race on Sunday in heavy rain and temperatures just above freezing. The start was not ideal and when Forster found his rhythm, a mistake in the Rockgarden caused a defect on the front wheel. This ended his chances of a top position. The two-time European champion finished the race in eleventh place.
Gold for Halter, a double silver for Liehner
The result for the Thömus Akros Youngstars team could hardly have been better. Monique Halter became European champion. Her first major success in the U23 category after missing most of the season last year due to injury. Lara Liehner also delivered an extremely strong European Championships. She took silver in both the short track and cross-country races.
Alessandra Keller and Mathias Flückiger decided not to take part in the European Championships and instead focused on training for the next World Cup in Nove Mesto (Cze).