Cycling: The second run of this year's 4X Pro Tour took place as part of the UCI Downhill World Cup in Fort William last weekend. Joost Wichman was able to achieve his first victory in front of the breathtaking backdrop and has thus completed his wish list.
Fort William is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious races in cycling. The World Cup has been at home here for over ten years and is always inspiring. Last weekend, the second run of the 4X Pro Tour took place as part of the World Cup. With one of the most challenging courses and countless fans, the sport at the Nevis Range is celebrated in a big way every year.
Dutchman Joost Wichman, who actually announced his retirement from active racing last year, also traveled to Scotland.
In a nerve-wracking finale, in which Wichman overtook the leading Scott Beaumont in front of his home crowd in the last corner, he was finally able to work off his wish list and has now won this classic alongside European and World Championship titles and World Cup victories.
“Fort William is something special for all drivers. The atmosphere, the fans, the track - Fort Bill is a real classic in the scene and definitely the race to win. After winning the 2013 Worlds, Crankworx and World Cups, that was my last big goal in my career. I've led here so many times, but something always happened. Either I fell or I was overtaken in the last corner. This year it almost happened again when Scott passed me on the second straight in the final but luckily I was able to counter in the last corner and now I've finally finished my list. It's awesome", Wichman said after the race.
The British Natasha Bradley surprised the women. The only 17-year-old was able to prevail against the experienced Austrian Helene Fruhwirth in the final and won her first victory in front of family and friends. Germany's Julia Lackas took a strong third place.
Photos: Irmo Keizer
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