Rydzek Triumphs in Home-Soil Battle at Chaux-Neuve

Rydzek Triumphs in Home-Soil Battle at Chaux-Neuve

Originally published in FIS on August 31, 2024

In an exhilarating display of talent, Johannes Rydzek clinched victory in the inaugural FIS Nordic Combined Summer Grand Prix held in Chaux-Neuve, France, under sweltering tropical conditions.

The German athlete quickly established himself as a frontrunner following the Ski Jumping event at La Côté Feuillée HS 118 earlier today. Rydzek soared to the longest jump of the day, covering an impressive distance of 112.5 meters (125.2 points), thus capturing the top spot in the jumping round. With this triumph, he took to the start line first in the 10 km roller ski race through Chaux-Neuve this afternoon.

Local favorite Laurent Mühlethaler from France finished the jumping competition in second place, landing at 111.5 meters (120.3 points) and embarking on the race just 20 seconds after Rydzek. Close behind was his compatriot David Mach, whose jump of 110 meters (117.7 points) put him in third, starting 30 seconds behind Rydzek.

Known for his prowess on skis, Rydzek wasted no time in expanding his lead, exhibiting relentless pace even amidst the sweltering heat and high humidity. He steadily increased his advantage, even forcing the lead bike—normally responsible for pacing the front runner—to pull back. During the ascent before the third lap, Rydzek had to maneuver around the noticeably tired cyclist, resulting in the race being conducted without a lead vehicle.

Mühlethaler held fast to his second position, spurred on by an enthusiastic crowd cheering him on from the sidelines. However, as the racers approached the 6 km mark, he found himself 31.4 seconds behind Rydzek, with Manuel Faisst and David Mach advancing from behind, trailing at 43.4 seconds and 43.7 seconds, respectively.

While Rydzek confidently surged toward the finish line, Mach struggled to keep pace with the chasing group during the final lap. In a thrilling finish, Mühlethaler and Faisst engaged in a heated sprint, with Faisst narrowly securing victory.

Faisst finished at +37.2 seconds, ensuring a German 1-2 finish, while Mühlethaler's +39-second time earned him a well-deserved podium spot, delighting the fans who had gathered to support him.