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Kurschat beats Absalon!
Wolfram gets a birthday present.
The third race of the German National Series (Bundesliga) took place this last weekend in Heubach. Once again, fans were delighted to see a double podium, with Kurschat grabbing the headlines.
Riding on his 34th birthday, his birthday wish came true. The former German Champion knew that it was a field of strong contenders, with the arguably the World’s best rider competing – Julian Absalon. He was the man to watch, and even with a good start, by the end of the long descent the Frenchman riding for team Orbea had a small lead. Kurschat was able to close this gap on the climbs however, and by the fifth lap he managed to pull away from him. There remained five laps to go, and with Kurschat’s form, he was able to keep everything smooth and perfect, building a two minute lead that he took to the finish line, beating the Olympic champion.
“It was a perfect race, and a great birthday present. The rain prior to the race had made the going tough. It wasn’t easy out there” an elated Kurschat said at the end of the race.
Irina finishes a solid 2nd place.
For the women’s race, Irina Kalentieva was pleased about the conditions. She always enjoys a good mud bath, and this was no exception. A solid performance saw her take second place behind Elisabeth Osl (Team Central Ghost). “I rode my own race, as I am preparing for Madrid next weekend”. The Russian started well, but dropped down to fifth before pushing forward again. The second place finish, between Osl and Nathalie Schneitter (Switzerland) was respectable for the former World Champion.
Mennen drops out with stomach problems
For Robert Mennen, also riding in the Elite field, it was less of a good day. Stomach problems meant that he had to drop out during the first lap. The problems had been with him all week, and it was only determination that brought him to the start line at all.
