Hermida and Hurikova win latest Czech Cup

Jose Antonio Hermida (Multivan Merida) won the Merida Bike Vysocina, a race held at Nove Mesto na morave that is part of the Czech Cup. Hermida finished ahead of teammate Ralph Naf and Merida's Jirí Friedl. Tereza Huríková (Ceská sporitelna MTB) won the women's race ahead of Katarzyna Solus and Pavlína Šulcová (Samba Chic Racing).

Hermida ruled the men's race from start to finish.

"Right from the start, I felt great. In the first half-lap, I found myself alone at the front with a 15-20 second gap over my teammate Ralf Naef, who was chasing alone in second," said Hermida.

"I slowed a bit and we then go together for the rest of the race. Ralf had a problem on the final descent and that gave me a slight advantage, so I arrived at the finish line alone.

Hermida was happy with his performance - especially since the race is sponsored by one of his team's main sponsors, Merida.

The Spaniard will resume preparation, including intensity training, for the European Championships in a few weeks. Referring to the sprint he also raced on Saturday, Hermida said, "A double-race weekend like this is perfect to help me improve my explosivity".