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Lakata wins in Steiermark!
An excellent result for Aban.
The first stage at 71km with 2300m of climbing took place on Friday. It allowed Alban to lay the foundations for the overall win, by the start of the second day he had 2 minutes 15 lead. The 52km shortened course had been hit hard by winter conditions following the weather breaking, as the original finish was deeply covered in snow. For the riders the stage was torture, with temperatures around freezing, sleet and snow. For Alban, his fifth place finish allowed him to defend his position in the overall classification, “it was hard today, but I am pleased with my performance”. The third stage on Sunday Lakata was beaten by Tony Longo (Full Dynamitics). His 45 second lead over the line was not enough to take the overall classification from the Austrian.
Lakata shows his strength in the Final
The fourth and last stage, at 72km promised to be an interesting race. With only 44 seconds lead over second place in the overall, the tension was high. However his 3hr 33m 37 for the stage also decided the general classification. A carefully calculated tactical game allowed him to hold off the competition to retain the trophy. At the end of 251km, with a 9450m climbed, Lakata finished with a lead of 1m 50 seconds on Longo.
“Defending my title as the Champion of the Alpentour was extremely important for me. Winning the stage race in the back yard, would be important for any athlete. Beginning today with only 44 seconds advantage put me under pressure but as soon as the gun went, I realised that today is my day. I am looking forward to the podium, and a rest day!” Lakata said, straight after the finish.
