After five days of intense competition, the UCI XCO World Championships in Andorra has come to an end for the Wilier-Vittoria MTB Factory Team riders. Despite setbacks, off days, and various obstacles, the team managed to hold their own, gaining valuable experience and key insights for the final stretch of the season.
On the Pal Arinsal circuits, Ginia Lara Caluori secured a spot in the Top 10 of the Women’s U23 XCO race, finishing 9th, though she wasn't entirely satisfied with the result. Gustav Pedersen delivered a strong performance, finishing 13th in the Men’s U23 XCO race and 7th in the team relay, where he competed alongside his sister, Sofie Pedersen. There were also promising signs from Elian Paccagnella, who in his first year in the U23 category, placed 14th in the XCC and 18th in the XCO. European champion Simone Avondetto, after finishing 11th in the XCC, faced a tough day in the XCO but remains determined to bounce back in the upcoming races.
Meanwhile, it was celebration time for Samuele Porro, who claimed victory in the Marathon at the Swiss National Park. Despite a mixed experience at the Swiss Epic due to teammate Fabian Rabensteiner's illness, which still didn’t stop the Wilier-Vittoria duo from winning a stage, Porro dominated the 141 km course within the National Park. His solo breakaway left no chance for his competitors.
“I’d say it went very well; the sensations throughout the race were excellent,” Porro said. “I set my pace on the Alpisella Pass and noticed everyone else was struggling, so I made my move on the Cassana Pass and broke away. I spent the last two hours of the race alone, managing my lead. I’m feeling confident ahead of the Mythos…”.
Indeed, on Saturday, September 7, the always spectacular Mythos Primiero Dolomiti will take place, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Pale di San Martino di Castrozza. The Wilier-Vittoria Marathon team will be aiming to make their mark.
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