Keller battles her way to fourth
Thömus maxon delivered a convincing start to the World Cup weekend at the La Thuile Short Track (XCC). World champion Alessandra Keller made an impressive return after recovering from illness, finishing fourth and just missing out on the podium. Among the men, Vital Albin posted the best team result in 14th, while the squad’s youngsters also impressed with two third places.
Set at around 1,500 metres above sea level, the course asked a great deal for an XCC race, featuring two long, technically demanding climbs and bone-dry, dusty conditions.
Keller just misses the podium
After shaking off her illness, Alessandra Keller returned to racing in style. Starting from the second row, the Swiss rider moved into the top five on the opening climb and formed a leading trio with Jenny Rissveds and Sina Frei. Only in the final two laps did the world champion have to concede to the high pace. In the end she secured a strong fourth place – behind winner Jenny Rissveds (SWE), Sina Frei (SUI) and Savilia Blunk (USA).
«It was very physical. I felt really good – until the second-to-last lap, then I had to suffer a bit. But it’s another fourth place, and that coming back from illness – so I’m happy with it,» said Keller.
Albin posts the best team result
The men’s race was hectic, and Vital Albin rose to the occasion: riding attentively, he worked his way forward to 14th and earned a solid starting position for Sunday. Lars Forster also got away well and fought his way into the top 20 before sliding out in a fast grassy corner – fortunately without serious injury. After a solid start, Mathias Flückiger lacked the top-end speed for the top 24 that determine the starting grid; he rode his own pace and finished 31st. The win went to Adrien Boichis (FRA) ahead of Luca Martin (FRA) and Charlie Aldridge (GBR).
«It was incredibly hard, like almost every short track. My goal was the top 16 – in the end it was 14th, and I’m really happy with that performance. It sets up a good second row for Sunday,» said Albin.
Looking ahead to Sunday’s Cross Country World Cup, the team is confident: the demanding course suits the profile of the Thömus maxon riders.
Two third places for the next generation
The team’s youngsters provided further highlights: in the U23 category, Monique Halter and Nicolas Halter each finished third, adding two more podiums.