GEWISS-BIANCHI GRASPS WITH ONE HAND THE MARATHON WORLD CUP

In the first event of the marathon World Cup, Thomas Dietsch confirms himself the leader. The next goal of the team is the 2nd event of the Internazionali d’Italia circuit.

The message is definitely clear: king of the MTB marathon Thomas Dietsch is determined not to renounce the throne. Gewiss-Bianchi champion who had won last year’s marathon World Cup, opened the 2008 edition in peak form by winning yesterday’s event in Manavgat (Turkey). This result is paramount especially because the marathon World Cup features only two events this year. Next event will take place in France (5 October, Ornans). Only two shots: the bikers can’t misfire.
The race was fought and won by the French champion, who rides on Bianchi Oetzi carbon, 21” ahead of Austrian Alban Lakata. Colombian Leonardo Paez finished fifth, slowed down by a puncture while he was riding in the leading group. The Gewiss-Bianchi team is also leading the special team ranking.
«This win is a present to president Felice Gimondi who goes on pouring forth enthusiasm and commitment in our sport, » team manager Massimo Ghirotto says and goes on: «Dietsch was very good at being always on his guard and the opponents couldn’t surprise him. After what happened in the first event of the Internazionali d’Italia, this time Lady Luck was smiling on us. I’m sorry for Paez: if not for that puncture, he could have even bettered his excellent fifth place. I was pleased with the good team spirit especially with Julio Caro who handed the wheel to Paez when he had the puncture. Now Dietsch will rest after some very demanding weeks. The Gewiss-Bianchi team will line up all its bikers at the next main goal of our racing calendar: the second stage of the Internazionali d’Italia (6 April, Nalles).»

Thomas Dietsch is equipped with MARZOCCHI CORSA SL WORLD CUP.