Josef Benetseder of Team Volksbank doesn't believe the stories that pro cycling is in a decline. After his first experience racing in Belgium on Saturday in the Omloop Het Volk, he said, "Cycling is surely not dying here." He was thrilled by the reactions of the fans. "Some even wanted my autograph, they even knew my name." He talked about the race being hard, but offering good experience. The Austrian added that "The race was a hard one for everyone. Always fighting for position and [there were] numerous crashes. It was an uneasy feeling, that increased as the race went on."
The 25 year-old didn't make it all the way to the finish, but that didn't bother him. The problem was "The cobblestones. It hurt like hell. 50 kilometres before the finish I was done."
Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*
Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets
After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59
Join now for unlimited access
Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
