She was one of the highly anticipated riders and did not disappoint. Ginia Lara Caluori opened the Wilier-Vittoria MTB Factory Team's 2024 UCI MTB World Series campaign with a strong second-place finish in the U23 women's XCO race in Mariporã, Brazil. The young Swiss athlete was narrowly beaten by Germany's Kira Böhm, who edged her out by just 11 seconds.
Caluori got things started on Saturday, finishing 7th in the short track - after a race spent consistently in the lead group despite a challenging start. However, yesterday on the technical and winding Brazilian course, she found terrain that suited her strengths better. Fifth overall last year, the Wilier-Vittoria athlete showed she is keen to improve her position.
"I'm pleased with how this World Cup has started; the first race is always a bit tricky, and you never know how your body will respond," said Caluori. "You may have prepared well with no hiccups, but then in the race, you never know how you'll feel. However, the sensations are very positive, and I end the day with a smile. It was a good battle; I came close to victory. Let's build on this.”
Meanwhile, in the men's race, Simone Avondetto put on a remarkable performance in the elite category, staging a comeback from 65th to 6th place over 7 laps. This is a significant confidence boost heading into the upcoming races.
"It was a convincing performance," admitted Avondetto. "I got off to a good start and lap after lap climbed several positions, eventually rejoining the leading group where I managed to secure sixth place. And if there had been one more lap, who knows... Now I'm eager to test myself in the next race, hoping to confirm my form.”
The Brazilian adventure continues as the team moves on to Araxá, in the western part of the country, for the second World Series event from April 19th to 21st. A mountainous region of Brazil, Araxá is known for its waterfalls and a renowned... spa. However, there will be no time to relax for the Wilier-Vittoria athletes, who are fully focused on the World Series.
Comments