Gexan Albisu claimed victory in the Shimano Super Cup Massi Vitoria-Gasteiz. The JRG Coloma Norclamp rider proved too strong for his rivals and came out on top after a fierce battle in the Alava town’s debut as a venue on the circuit. In the women’s category, Lucía Miralles put in a solid performance and crossed the finish line in first place to claim victory.
The event forms part of the Vitoria-Gasteiz VTT Basque Country sporting programme, which turns the city into the epicentre of mountain biking over the weekend of 2 and 3 May.
In addition to the Shimano Super Cup Massi, school races were also held, in which the youngest cyclists were able to emulate their idols on a circuit adapted to their age group. Furthermore, the XCM (Cross Country Marathon) race will take place on Sunday, offering two distances and the option to compete in either the competitive category or the Open category, or – on the short course only – to ride an eBike.
Gexan Albisu wins on his debut in Vitoria-Gasteiz
Clouds blanketed the sky over Vitoria-Gasteiz early in the day. The riders lined up on time and the paddock gradually filled with colour as the day progressed. Spanish riders David Campos and Raúl Villar were the main contenders for victory. The start went smoothly and the race got off to a normal start.
The riders took their first pedal strokes on the circuit with the clock ticking. The route – covering a distance of 5.45 kilometres with 162 metres of elevation gain – culminated in the summit of Mount Olarizu, a challenge where physical fitness would make all the difference, as well as a first section of the descent that also included some more technical sections.
Gexan Albisu secured victory after being the fastest rider of the day. From the outset, he stood out from the peloton and managed to slot in behind David Campos and Raúl Villar. Villar broke away, set the pace, and only two crashes on the final lap due to the rain denied him victory. Albisu was able to overtake him, whilst Campos had already fallen behind by then.
Thus, Albisu consolidated his lead and raised his arms to celebrate victory as he crossed the finish line. The podium was completed by Raúl Villar and David Campos, respectively.
Lucía Miralles crowned champion in Vitoria-Gasteiz
The main contenders for victory in the women’s race were Núria Bosch and Ainara Elbusto. However, Miralles proved to be the most complete rider of the day. Bosch traded blows and kept the race tense, but Miralles attacked and left her behind.
Miralles managed her lead and was able to maintain her pace to cross the finish line first. Bosch had to settle for second place, whilst third place went to Magali Albisu.