The first World Cup of the year is always a scary and exciting moment. You have no idea where you will end up on the results sheet but the first race usually tells you all you need to know.
Unfortunately, because of my low world ranking I missed out on the short track race by just one spot so wouldn’t have the chance to fight for the front three rows. But on a positive note, I would have fresher legs for the XCO race the following day.
I started on the 5th row and had to battle my way through the pack. After the first lap I was around 40th and tried my best to keep patient and not burn too many matches early fighting for position. My legs felt decent and I was able to move up a little bit throughout the race, eventually finishing 36th.
Although it’s not where I want to be it was still better than any World Cup result I had last year, and in such a tight race I have to be satisfied with that. Overall, the legs felt pretty good, and the body a lot healthier than last year too. I now know where I stand against the competition and although the next round is only five days away I know a few areas where I can improve before Nove Mesto. Onwards and upwards from here!