Hélène Clauzel has accustomed her legs to the rhythm of the World Cup – News

After a weekend of rest following her 8th place at the European Championship, Hélène Clauzel returned to competition in the best possible way, since she won the UCI cyclo-cross of Gernelle, this SATURDAY. “The fact of not having raced last weekend did me good, I think. I had a really intense start to the season, with almost twelve races while the season has not yet fully started”she smiles, after a start to the season in the United States where she completed eight races, for as many victories.

But the serious things begin with the World Cup next week, which opens in Antwerp. So the Van Rysel CX Team rider wanted to get some bearings in the Ardennes. “I wanted to race at my own pace, it will be harder next week in the World Cup so I didn't want to play tactical, and go all out. I did it and I'm happy with the sensations”. The scenario quickly turned to its advantage, notably thanks to a great start. “I know that’s my strong point, I’m very strong on that”.

“I CAME TO RIDE HARD WITHOUT LOOKING AT WHAT’S HAPPENING BEHIND”

Once again, this full ball start should serve him well for next week. “It's going to start very strong again next weekend, the first two laps are very important in the World Cup, and after that it's a bit of a watch. So I wanted to do two or three intense laps so that the legs are 'habit'. And the threat of Jeanne Duterne, who ultimately suffered a puncture, did not panic her. “I knew that a young person like Jeanne could be very strong, she’s the new generation. I came to ride hard without looking at what’s happening behind, while being very clean technically, so I did it”.

Hélène Clauzel is now ready to do battle in Antwerp after this visit to Gernelle, which allowed her to race a little longer in France. “That’s also why I’m here, I wanted to show my French Champion jersey again here, it’s important. It made me happy because it’s a good friend who organizes it”. But the 26-year-old runner was also able to test herself on what she likes less. “The restarts are less to my advantage, I always have difficulty in these parts in the World Cup”. Hélène Clauzel will have plenty of time to demonstrate the opposite during the winter.