The World Cup was back in Vallnord, Andorra with some of the driest conditions riders have ever seen in Europe. Downhill racers were treated to an exciting new track, while cross country athletes geared up for some of the most intense racing of the year, and the overall standings got tighter and tighter. Who emerged victorious? Let’s find out.
Friday’s Short Track race was a great way to kick off racing. Anne Terpstra (Ghost Factory Racing), Rebecca McConnell (PMG Racing Team), and Linda Indergand (LIV Cycling) all had strong performances, finishing in second, third, and fourth places. Nino Schurter (SCOTT-SRAM MTB Team) had a rough day and finished 15th.
On Saturday, the action continued with the Downhill race on the new course. Gracey Hemstreet (Norco Factory Team) placed second in Junior Women, while Jordan Williams (Madison Saracen), Tegan Cruz (Rockshox Trek Race Team), and Bodhi Kuhn (Trek Bikes) captured second through fourth places in Junior Men. Jackson Goldstone (Santa Cruz Syndicate) proved once again that he’s on a different level by not only taking the win in Junior Men, but laying down a time that would’ve earned him the win in Elite Men as well.
With an absolutely thrilling run, Vali Höll (Rockshox Trek Race Team) stood atop the Elite Women’s World Cup podium claiming another victory. Mille Johnset (Commencal/100%) also had a great race, placing fifth in Elite Women. In a fortunately rare occurrence, there were no Maxxis Elite Men on the podium. Angel Suarez Alonso (Commencal/100%) was the closest back in seventh place.
On Sunday, the XCO race proved to be thrilling as ever. Nino fought back from a second row start to a podium finish, placing third on the day. In Elite Women, Anne Terpstra had a phenomenal race, taking the win. Her teammate Caroline Bohé (Ghost Factory Racing) rounded out the day in fifth.
That’s it for another amazing round of the 2022 World Cup! Next up, Snowshoe in the USA starting July 29 – we cannot wait!
