Kiwi Rider May 2024 Vol.2 | Page 18

DIRT NEWS
from Teodor Kabakchiev . Increasing his lead on the third and final lap , Lettenbichler delivered a champion ’ s ride to reach the checkered flag first in style . Finishing over three minutes ahead of second place saw him secure his first victory of the 2024 HEWC season . Despite his clean sweap , Lettenbichler was humble on the podium . “ That was not an easy race ! It was hard and hot out there today ,” he said . “ For the first lap , I wished I had a fan for my face as I was sweating so much . The pace was really fast , especially on that first lap , but I knew I had to stay out front in order to control the race . I managed to build a bit of a gap and so from there I was able to just ease off a little and maintain a good , solid rhythm from the front . On the last lap , Teo ( Kabakchiev ) was pushing really hard and so I had to increase my pace a little – he did a really good job today . At the end I gave it everything just to make sure I had enough of an advantage and to keep things safe , but it all worked out and I was able to come away with the win . I ’ m super happy to get the season started off like this and can ’ t wait for Erzberg now .”
18 KIWI RIDER