Nadine Rieder says she had so much pent-up energy it was a pleasure to use it as she won the second event of the Western Cape MTB XCO Series, which took place at Rhebokskloof in Paarl at the weekend.
Nadine Rieder won the second event of the WC MTB XCO Series, which took place at Rhebokskloof in Paarl at the weekend. Photo: Henk Neuhoff
This followed the disappointment of the Cape Epic, which was to have started on Sunday, being called off due to the spread of the coronavirus. The 30-year-old German star would have competed alongside Sweden’s Jennie Stenerhag.
“I’m glad that I could take part in the Western Cape XCO race. I could let power and all the emotions out,” said Rieder.
“That I could win was nice, for sure, but more important for me was just to dig deep.”
Rieder said she heard of the race on Friday evening, when the Epic was cancelled, and went there the next day without knowing the course.
“My main goal was just to show myself how my current shape feels in a race and leave it all out there. It was more racing for myself than against competitors.”
She added that she came to the race venue, picked up her number plate and did a small warm-up.
“Shortly afterwards I was already at the start line, more than happy because I knew that it’s maybe the last time [I’ll be racing] for the next several weeks.
“First my plan was to stay behind on the first lap so that I could get to know the track, but shortly after the start I could feel my strength and so I just went in front and focused on myself.
“It was kind of an Epic feeling, just going without knowing where the route takes you.”
Rieder found the route fantastic. It was “super flowy” with lots of climbing, which she loved.
“So it couldn’t have been any better – a day to push hard and enjoy the riding.”
Her plan now is to compete in all the world cup events, with her biggest goal being the world champs on home soil in Albstadt at the end of June.
“For me Epic was not the main goal. It was part of the preparation for the XCO season, so even if we really wanted to race for the win it’s not affecting my main season that much.”
She added that she and Stenerhag were sad and disappointed when they heard news of the cancellation, but knew things were already on high alert after some teams had pulled out.
“I do think the organisers made the right decision. It’s always so in life that everything happens for a reason.”
Rieder said she could feel and see form-wise how far she had come following all her preparations.
“I changed coaches in the middle of last year and I’m working together now with Jeroen Swart and I love working with him.
“I trust and believe his work 100 per cent and I think this is the main point why I’m having this form and condition now,” said Rieder, who plans to return home next week.
