Lower Austrian Kaider is crowned champion at the Race Across America!

Lower Austrian Kaider is crowned champion at the Race Across America!

Philipp Kaider from Lower Austria won the famous extreme cycling race Race Across America. The demanding route covered 4,932 kilometers from Oceanside, California, to Atlantic City, New Jersey. It took Kaider an impressive 8 days, 22 hours and 32 minutes to cross the United States. In an interview, the 39-year-old from Wolkersdorf said that he was tired and couldn't yet contain his feelings after this extraordinary victory. He describes the race as the longest and most strenuous of his life, but emphasizes that he was able to consistently deliver his performance without any significant drops.

The achievement achieved is not only important for Kaider himself, but also has great historical relevance for the Austrian cycling scene. With his victory, he is the fifth Austrian to secure the title at the Race Across America. Four compatriots have previously won the prestigious title: Franz Spilauer (1988), Wolfgang Fasching (1997, 2000, 2002), Christoph Strasser (2011, 2013, 2014, 2017, 2018, 2019) and Severin Zotter (2015).

Race course and competition

Kaider took the lead early in the race and gradually expanded it. Another Austrian participant, Lukas Kaufmann from Upper Austria, had taken second place last year and was well on his way to another podium finish with 300 kilometers to go. Kaider, who won the competition with his consistent performance, managed to leave the competition behind him.

Cycling has gained enormous importance in recent decades due to technical innovations and professionalization of training methods. Events like the Race Across America attract extremely motivated athletes who maximize their performance through precise nutrition strategies and aerodynamic designs. Kaider's performance is another example of the tireless competitive spirit in cycling.

The importance of cycling

The history of cycling, which began with the invention of the handcar by Karl Drais in 1817/18, shows how the sport developed from a leisure activity to a major sport. Major events such as the Tour de France now attract millions of spectators and have produced numerous sporting heroes. Cycling now encompasses many disciplines, including road racing, mountain biking and BMX, inspiring athletes and fans worldwide.

In summary, it can be said that Philipp Kaider's victory at the Race Across America is not only a personal achievement for him, but is also a valuable achievement for the Austrian cycling scene. As for the next challenges in sport, it remains to be seen which records will fall next.