Specialized sweeps the podium. Legend Ned Overend added another Rainbow Jersey to his storied palmares with his solo win at the Masters Men 55-59 World Championships in Louisville. California Giant Berry Farms/Specialized teammates Norman Kreiss and Henry Kramer claimed hard-fought second and third places respectively.
“Yeah, it was great to have the three of us on the podium.” said Overend. “It feels great to win the jersey and especially in classic cross conditions, cold weather, slippery mud and ice.”
“It was a good tough race with some really good riders and of course Ned which is always a honor to race and finish on the podium with.” commented Kreiss who admitted that taking second was frustrating. But then he added, “on the other hand it feels better then 10th.”
Kreiss’ plan was to go fast from the gun on the course where the frozen ruts were giving way to perfect muddy conditions under sunny skies on Sunday afternoon.
“I got a really good start, Jim Gentes lead it out and I came off his wheel and Ned’s wheel for the holeshot . At this point, I felt my best chance to beat Ned and Henry was to open a gap and cause them to make mistakes chasing. I had a good gap and if I had Myall’s horse power it would of worked, but I don’t and it didn’t.” Kreiss said.
Solo for the first lap, Kreiss was caught by Overend and Kramer on the second lap. “I had a pretty good start and was chasing Norm on the first lap, when I went down and was back in fifth when I got going again. Norm led through with a 17 second gap starting the second lap with Kramer in second and me in third.” Overend explained.
The three rode together until Overend opened up a small gap when Kreiss went down. “Kramer was having some shifting problems. I was just trying to ride the open straightaways really hard and stay upright in the turns.”
Overend pushed the pace at the front, set the fastest lap time of 9:57 on the second lap. He continued to open up his gap, crossing the finish line in victory with over one minute and 22 seconds lead at the end of four laps.
Behind him, Kreiss and Robert Downs (Planet Bike) caught Kramer and the battle was on for second place.
“Going into the finish it was the three of us. Downs went wide and Henri stumbled a little, I ran cleanly and was able to get on the pavement cleanly and win the sprint.” Kreiss said.
Overend is keeping his options open for the 2013 Masters Worlds in Louisville while Kreiss not only wants to return but hopes to entice his wife Gina Hall to also race at the event.
“I have not made any race plans for next year, I’m looking forward to taking some time of the bike and doing some cross-country skiing.” Overend commented.
Kreiss concluded, “Overall it was a great experience to race Worlds with a great course and really well organized. I’ll definitely be back next year and won’t miss the pro worlds. Maybe, we get Gina H. fired up!”
