On the first official day of the German Cross Championship, all riders had the chance to test the race course. I also took advantage of this opportunity and did a few laps on the track. After examining the route on foot yesterday, I realized today that it was even more slippery than yesterday, even though the puddles had disappeared in many places and it seemed drier on the surface. So on the many small climbs it was time to walk instead of driving. The patches of meadow had also become even deeper and they were plowed further through by each driver.
[iframe src=”//www.youtube.com/embed/I_vd2dwnrfA?rel=0?feature=player_embedded” width=”620″ height=”349″ iframe]The U23 and senior riders in particular were on the course today to prepare for their race tomorrow. Felix Drumm and Paul Lindenau in particular seemed very fit and drove very confidently through the mud. Both are considered favorites for the U23 race.
The favorites for the senior race tended to avoid each other today; while Stefan Danowski from Hamburg took to the track in the morning, the Bernese brothers only went on the course in the afternoon.
Tomorrow it's about the medals in the classes seniors 3/4, students U17, men U23 and seniors 2, as well as for the hobby drivers.
However, as rain is still forecast for the night, the ground conditions will probably change again. Then the patches of meadow will get even deeper and some drivers will have to walk even more.
You can find results and pictures here.