Schurter goes long

Marathoners beware. There's a new potential competitor out there to test the favorites. In his first competition lasting over six hours, Swiss Nino Schurter won the Transvesubienne, a classic event with 3,000m of climbing and 4,500m of descending in France. The race was part of the Mega Avalanche series.

It drew some top riders including Olympic champion Julien Absalon. However, Schurter crossed the line for the win in six hours and 12 minutes. Teammate Francoise Bailly finished second within two minutes, Vincent Julliot was third, and Absalon finished 48 minutes later, in eighth place.

Despite his win, Schurter said not to worry, he is not going to change disciplines. "Marathon racing is way too tough," he said.