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Nino Schurter: "All riders like to come to Offenburg"

At the age of 23 years Nino Schurter of Switzerland won the world championships in 2009 as the youngest rider in history. He also won the bronze medal at 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. At the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Offenburg, he is one of the top favourites and wants to fight for the victory. 

1) This year you will come to Offenburg as the current world champion. At the world championships in Australia 2009 you have taken the title from high achiever Julien Absalon. In which way this title has changed your life?

The interest in my person - particularly in the media - has increased significantly after my bronze medal at the Olympic Games in Beijing. After the World Champion title in 2009, the interest of media and sponsors increased again. Otherwise there are only marginal changes.


2) You`ve already demonstrated your strength in 2008 with the victories in the U23 World Championships, the U23 European Championship and your third place in Beijing. How important is the Olympic bronze medal for you?

Olympic Games have something magical about it. Every athlete dreams of participating in the Olympics. I was able to live that dream in Beijing by winning a medal. For me as an athlete, this success has a very great importance. I have worked many years for this moment.

3) In 2008 and 2009 Offenburg was elected as world's best mountain bike event by the UCI. What do you think makes this event so unique?

The track is one of a kind and offers every rider the opportunity to show his/her strengths. The field of participants is top and last but not least, the event is organized very professional. All riders like to come to Offenburg.


4) The course in Offenburg-Rammersweier is extremely spectacular and technically demanding. Do you like the course design at Offenburg?

Yes, I like races like the one in Offenburg. On such courses, I'm able to offer top performances.


5) The two-time Olympic champion Julien Absalon of France has been able to win all three World Cup races in Offenburg by now. Will the fans be able to look forward to a change of leadership in 2010?

I will do my best and try to ride my own race. The past has shown, however, that I am able to beat Absalon. Let's see how it goes in Offenburg.


6) What are your main goals for the season 2010?

I want to win the overall World Cup and of course defend my World Champion title.

 

Foto: Copyright Keystone/Martin Platter