“Dry and dusty it was. Much more of a challenge to the athletes than the humidity and heat itself. With all the dust vision was crucial for those not riding in front. Therefore the start was more important than ever. Experienced Schurter made sure he stayed at front right from the beginning. So did his long time competitor Jaroslav Kulhavy. The first three laps the Olympic Champion of 2012 set a pace that was hard at the limit for Schurter to follow”, shared Scott-SRAM Team.

It was Kulhavy exploding the four men lead group which also contained French Marotte and Brazilian Avanchini. While last two dropped back during the race, Half way trough Kulhavy slowed down a bit. As a result of this Swiss Thomas Litscher bridged up to Kulhavy and Schurter. The 2011 U23 World Champion Litscher surprised all, but himself the most.

Exciting finale:
“The two Swiss and Kulhavy went into last lap together. Nino knew he needed to go into the last descent in first position. Problem: there was no room to pass on the uphill. Nino started to get nervous, even produced a rare mistake where he had to put his foot down. Nino was not Nino if at the end he still found a way to get around Kulhavy. With a 4 second advantage N1NO was shooting down to the finish line to defend his No.1 title”, they added.

“First I enjoy the moment of right now. It was the hardest battle of this years season and I’m just happy I did it again. It really means a lot to me to continue wearing the World Champion jersey next year. One goal for the future is set: Winning the World Champion title at my home in Switzerland is what I’m dreaming of.” Nino Schurter, Olympic Champion, SCOTT-SRAM MTB Racing.
Nino Schurter’s SCOTT Spark RC 900 World Cup for Cairns:

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