Austria's bike heroes in Missouri: The fight against the Great Pains

Austria's bike heroes in Missouri: The fight against the Great Pains

Missouri, USA - On June 17, 2025, the participants of the Race Across America crucial challenges. The race, which is considered the longest and hardest bike race in the world, has already brought many athletes to their physical and mental limits. Insider says: "Anyone who crosses the Mississippi also gets to the finish." There are currently three Austrians - Philipp Kaider, Lukas Kaufmann and Kurt Matzler - in Missouri or further and have left two thirds of the total of 4,880 kilometers.

While Philipp Kaider leads the race, Lukas Kaufmann takes second place and Kurt Matzler fights for fourth place. The last states that are waiting for the participants are Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland and New Jersey. However, from now on the route becomes more challenging: the "Great Pains" follow the "Great Plains". The participants have already covered around 4,000 kilometers and are faced with over 7,000 meters of altitude before the most strenuous stage of the Appalaches.

The challenges of the race

The preparations for the last stages are essential both mentally and physically. Kurt Matzler reports on his personal difficulties by fighting problems with the neck muscles. Due to this pain, he had to wear a ruff at times, which was unusually padded with a ladies' bond. The streets are hilly and also dangerous due to large trucks, which reinforces the already high demands of the race.

Kurt Matzler, who completed the race last year in 11 days, 5 hours and 50 minutes, has meanwhile published the book "The High Performance Mindset". In this work, he addresses the extreme stress and special experiences during the race, which also includes massive climatic conditions from desert heat to icy temperatures. Matzler not only shares his insights into extreme sports, but also draws parallels to management and lifestyle.

psychological aspects in cycling

Psychological factors in professional cycling are crucial. According to experts, mental strength, dealing with pressure and self -motivation are as important as physical training. Athletes not only have to test their physical limits, but also develop resilience. To be successful, you should use techniques such as visualization and mindfulness to overcome challenges and maximize performance.

Matzler also promotes a balanced diet that is essential for sporting performance. Regular absorption of fruit, vegetables and whole grains plays an important role in training. Supported by your team and your trainers, the athletes are able to strengthen their mental strength in order to better perform and successfully master under pressure.

The Race Across America shows the hardness and determination that is challenged by the participants. The Austrian athletes are about to do the finish line, but still have to master numerous challenges before they can celebrate the well -deserved conclusion of their trip.