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Gold 1:29:03 PB |
Today, I felt it was a much easier race than the 35K. I was definitely more relaxed, and with a better mindset to compete. Unlike the 35K, I decided not to lead from the beginning of the race. Instead, I wanted to watch the other athletes – their technique and tactics – this helped me to be in control of the race. I was convinced [Maria] Perez and the Polish girl would be at the front, because they were the favourites for this race. I didn´t think I would be rested enough after the 35K, so I am very surprised that I could win this race, too. These are my favourite weather conditions, the best for me really, and I always do well in this rainy weather. I am never afraid of not having a good technique, and I am always very confident about it. To be honest, I wasn´t aware that [Maria] Perez had gone into the penalty box earlier in the race. |
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Bronze 1:29:25 PB |
This is crazy. I am super happy. Thank you very much for supporting me along the course. I would also like to thank my coach who helped me also during the race, he shouted so much. Also my family was here and friends. Every meter I heard my name. The atmosphere was fantastic. I liked the weather, it was good for me. It kept me cool from above. No need to shower afterwards (laughs). I am looking forward to the coming years with the Olympic Games Paris as my big goal. I found new home in Leipzig. I study medicine and will train there for the next years. The distance between me and the Polish athlete did not change much on the last lap, I did not get closer nor did she get away. I tried to catch her but in vain. Yet, I am on cloud nine. This medal is more than I expected. And also a new PB. The race was not like I expected it to be. The pace was quite slow at the beginning. On the second half the pace got faster and the race got harder for me. I was very excited and it was a tough race. The second half was very fast and I achieved a PB. I really paid attention to have a good, clean technique and I guess, that paid off. It is important on a 2K lap to stay “clean” technically, because you pass in front of the board ten times. I managed that well. At the beginning of the race we stayed all together as a group, so this helped me and gave me confidence and the pace was perfect for me, indeed. So, I tried to be courageous, use my chances and I was rewarded for that. I heard my name nearly every meter, so that really pushed me. |
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Silver 1:29:20 |
This race was something special for me and it was a very tough competition, especially mentally. I had some serious problems so I struggled with it. And I also felt problems with my spine, many problems with my body so this silver medal means a lot to me. There was a moment when I was maybe even thinking about attacking the gold position. It was the last kilometers when we broke the group and went to the front with the Greek athlete. However, the pace was just too fast for me. I did not have enough power to keep up with her. But honestly, I do not think of the gold now because after all of this, this silver feels like gold to me. It was very hard today but I am glad I ended up on the podium. |