It was already the fifth of seven races and only five results will be included in the overall rankings at the end of the season. Many of the points have been collected already, but there is still a chance to gain some more. The first four races were far from easy and everyone who has a seat in the upper parts of the standings should be proud and definitely deserves the title.
The track does not belong to the longest ones but provided some other obstacles: 1750 meters in length and a 320-meter difference in altitude are covered in rocks, stones, roots and a lot of wood. Last year's track had been slightly modified at some parts and proved to be in perfect shape for the race. The weather and the general conditions were nearly perfect, but hot temperatures and the lack of rain made the track extremely dusty and fast. With nearly no grip the riders had to prove real skill, precision and a remarkable feeling for their bikes.
From the beginning, Zarja Cernilogar (SLO - Blackthorn GT) again dominated the Elite Women category. With nearly the same time as in her seeding run (3:28.843) she edged out the current leader of the rankings Jana Bartova of Czech by a healthy 4-second lead. In the Elite Men category, Noel Niederberger (SUI - Gstaad-Scott) was the first rider to cross the finish line in less than three minutes: after an incredible run, it took him only 2:59.358 minutes to get down the hill.
Noel Niederberger - winner of EDC Spicak 2014
In the overall rankings, David Trummer (AUT - RRP Ghost) still holds the first place, followed by Manuel Gruber (AUT - Radon Factory Team). After this weekend, however, the EDC have a new third place with Nick Beer.
Five in the books, but still two to go! In August, the Cup will return to Italy with round six in Pila, before all the rider will make their way to the final seventh round of the iXS European Downhill Cup in Leogang.
Photos: © Thomas Dietze, copyright applied.
Source: http://www.ixsdownhillcup.com
