GroßSchaptner breaks the spell: Triumph on the tour of Austria!

GroßSchaptner breaks the spell: Triumph on the tour of Austria!

Steyr, Österreich - Felix Großschaftner finally ended his dry spell on the tour of Austria and reported back with an impressive victory. In an exciting finish, the 30-year-old cycling professional finished surreal and supple on the last 500 meters. "I was sure that Archie Ryan couldn't catch up with me when I have a little hole," said Großschaftner in an interview with the ORF .

The race, which is considered the largest bike race in Austria, began in Steyr, where an eleven -member group of outliers formed, which after 50 kilometers already went out to the main field of up to three minutes. While the first mountain ratings by Nicolas Winokurow from Astana and later also by the now crushed outlier group, the main field, led by World Tour teams, won the escape troop more than 20 km before the finish.

historical context of the tour of Austria

The tour of Austria, which is celebrating its 70th edition this year, has a long history that goes back to 1955. At that time the first tour of a free Austria took place, without zone limits. The stages were initially challenging, many over 200 kilometers, such as the legendary route from Wels to Wattens, the 245 kilometers measure. In the following years, the race experienced both victories of Swedish drivers and the first successes of Austrian talents.

Today, the tour is not only followed by domestic spectators, but also attracts international cycling professionals. The last home overall winner was Riccardo Zoidl, who then polished the hopes for another domestic success, as both Patrick Konrad and Felix Großsschartner are striving for their first victory since 2013. It is an event that is also considered a springboard for professional contracts for many young Austrians, as Konrad noted. The TV broadcasts are also decisive for tourism and show the impressive landscapes of the country.

look into the future

The next stage of the tour leads from Bischofshofen over 142 km to St. Johann/Alpendorf on Thursday. Here a flat section is combined with a challenging mountain arrival on the ghost mountain, which promises additional tension. The atmosphere is electrified, and according to Großschartner's triumph it is clear: the Austrian cycling community can look forward to a few exciting days. The history of the race is continued, and every victory reflects the deep connection of the nation with this sport.