Bettendorff crowns himself U23 Luxembourgish CX Champion

Loïc Bettendorff adds yet another champion jersey to his collection by winning the U23 Luxembourgish Cyclocross Championships. The 19-year-old rode a very strong race and took a deserved win, which is the first one of the 2020 season for Leopard Pro Cycling.

The battle for the Luxembourgish champion jersey took place in Mersch in a mixed race which involved both elite and U23 riders. Bettendorff did not miss his start and was always present in the front of the race. After he passed his main competitor, Raphaël Kockelmann, Bettendorff found a solid pace for the next few laps. He closed the gap to Lex Reichling and Scott Thiltges who were leading the elite race. By giving it his all to stay with them, the gap to the other U23 riders grew fast and the victory and the resulting national title was inevitable. On the podium, Loïc was joined by Raphaël Kockelmann and soon-to-be Leopard rider Cedric Pries.

Pictures (c): Grand-Ducal Cycling & sportfotos.lu

Loïc Bettendorff

"I am so proud of my race and this result. I am happy that I had a very good start, so I could stay as calm as possible and not make any mistakes. Once I passed Raphaël, I was very confident, because I knew that I could make a difference in the running section. After this, I tried to stay with Lex and Scott as long as possible, which helped me to create a big gap to the other U23 riders and in the end take the win."