National Champion of New Zealand wins HC race in Banyoles
Anton Cooper took a flying start to the season. The 24-year-old Kiwi crossed the finish line solo after placing a race winning move halfway through the last lap. He beat Maxime Marotte and Victor Koretzky. It was his first participation in the race, but he had done his home work.
“It was my first time racing here, and I had been told that usually it comes down to a small group of riders here. I tried to stay near the front in the top 3 for most of the race, and felt really fresh, but when it’s a tactical race anything can happen. I think I timed my attack well, with about half a lap to go, and I opened up a gap quite quickly.”
Cooper, who traveled to Europe for a team training camp in Spain early this month, stayed in the area to compete at the Banyoles race. The results bodes well for the season ahead.
“This is a really exciting way to start the season, especially with so many top riders here. I had good legs and I’m glad to finish it off with a win. I definitely have room to improve but so do my rivals. A really positive way to start the season and certainly motivation to keep working hard.”
