Pinton and Hober win the Penser Joch Grand Prix

The goal of the fastest cyclists at the Penser Joch Grand Prix every year is to break the one-hour mark. But nothing came of this venture on Saturday. Heavy rain from Pens, which sometimes turned into showers, and strong winds demanded everything from the cyclists in the 26 kilometer long race with an altitude difference of 1190 meters. Some of the participants even had difficulty keeping their bikes on the road - it was so slippery after the hailstorm, which was very violent at times.

Cristian Pinton set the best time of the day. The 33-year-old from Cittadella, who competed for Team Terenzi, won in 1:05.05 hours. Pinton, who tried to break away with a few other riders about five kilometers before the finish, was 18 seconds faster than local hero Thomas Gschnitzer from Sterzing (Poli. AVI Bike Team) of the same age. Third place went to Andrea Zamboni from Trentino, who drives for the Carina Brao Caffè team. The 35-year-old recorded a time of 1:06.16 hours.

“I have rarely competed in a race in such extreme conditions. Normally you should actually stop. But I persevered and of course I’m very happy that I was able to win the Penser Joch Grand Prix,” said Pinton at the prize distribution.

Hober repeats her victory from last year

As last year, Alexandra Hober from Merano (Athletic Club Merano) won among the women. She covered the 26 kilometer route with an altitude difference of 1190 meters in 1:13.09 hours and celebrated a start-to-finish victory. Because Hober's time was almost six minutes faster than second-placed Barbara Zambotti (MG.K Vis-Somec/1:19.01). Claudia Bertoncini (Velo Club Maggi/1:23.37) completed the podium.

“It was really borderline, especially the last two kilometers. I pedaled hard but felt like I was standing. I thought my legs would lock if I didn't move them for a second. But in the end we all reached the finish line healthy and that’s the most important thing,” said Alexandra Hober.

A total of 95 cyclists tackled the Penser Joch Grand Prix, 81 of whom reached the finish. The Moser Bau trophy for the strongest team went to the Carina – Brao Caffè team.

“Today all participants can feel like winners and heroes. The conditions were really difficult and the cyclists braved them. We as organizers tried everything to make the best of the situation. I would like to thank my helpers who, as always, ensured everything ran smoothly. And of course I would also like to thank our sponsors,” said OC boss Hartmann Stuefer from ASC Sarntal/Rad section. The Penser Joch Grand Prix was the fourth stage of the South Tyrol.Mountain.Cup.

The complete results are attached below.

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Pinton and Hober win the Penser Joch Grand Prix

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