Zdenek has become 43rd at the world championship in Richmond. Our man attacked in the final lap, but could not sustain his effort. Peter Sagan was the strongest and became the new world champion in the US.
“We had a strong Czech selection here in Richmond”, Styby said afterwards. “The guys were motivated, well prepared and wanted to support me here. I am of course very grateful for them. They also drove a great race.”
Zdenek was well surrounded by his countrymen. “They were always around me. Perfect. In the final it was Roman Kreuziger who went to the head of the peloton and pulled back a large group of 25 riders.”
“Then there was another group who drove away, including Tom Boonen and Michal Kwiatkowski, but they were caught with one lap to go. Karel Hnik brought me to the front and I placed my attack on the first cobbled slope.”
The intention was to get a gap with a little group. “That did not work out. Everyone followed and at the next slope Sagan placed a serious attack. I hesitated a little, but actually didn’t have the power to follow him.”
“I had to let go the peloton in the last kilometer. I just didn’t have the strength to fight for gold. I am satisfied with the race and the performance of the Czech national team, but not with the result.”
“I’d like to congratulate Sagan for the way he won. He drove without a strong squad and still won. I would also like to thank the Czech Cycling Federation for the good organization. Everything was perfect.”