Lakata takes third national title

Image 1 of 2

Alban Lakata (Topeak Ergon) defended his marathon title at the Austrian National Championships this weekend. Lakata beat Heinz Verbnjak and Jakob Nimpf. Monika Schachl won the women's title ahead of Maria Osl and Nina Duftner.

The national championships event was run in conjunction with the KitzAlp Bike event in Kirschberg.

Lakata started the 88km race with 3,800m of climbing on the offensive at the front.

"I wanted to make it clear that I intended to retain the title," he said after his win. "I wanted to ensure that should I have a mechanical, there would be a time cushion there to help me."

Lakata, 31, competed the three laps in 4:15:28. He led from start to finish and had a 15:47 advantage on the second placed Verbnjak and the third placed Nimpf.

"I am very happy. For the third time in my career, I have won the national title. It is an amazing feeling. It wasn't an easy race, but everything worked perfectly for me, the bike, my preparation... everything. It was a great day!"