US national champion Katie Compton (Rabobank-Giant Offroad) extended her unbeaten status in the UCI World Cup by winning the first round of the 2011-2012 season in Plzen, Czech Republic. Compton launched her decisive attack on the fast but slippery course in the fourth of six laps. Defending World Cup winner Sanne van Paassen (Brainwash) exploited a late crash by Katerina Nash (Luna Pro Team) to grab second place ahead of the Czech champion.

“Whew… I needed that! Finally good legs and skills came together on the same day. Awesome course in Plzen,” Compton tweeted after her victory. With her win, she logically gets into the lead of the new World Cup rankings, but Compton will not defend this position as she will not be heading to the second World Cup round in Tabor next week.

The opening lap on the Czech course was led by British champion Helen Wyman (Kona). Due to her efforts, the early selection was made and a group of six leaders was formed. The group consisted of Wyman, Compton, Van Paassen, Nash, Daphny van den Brand (AA Drink – Leontien.nl) and Sabrina Schweizer. Read More→