Anniina Ahtosalo stormed to victory in the U23 women’s time trial at the European Championships, finishing in 40’54” to secure the title on a rain-soaked course between Heusden-Zolder and Hasselt. The Finnish rider’s dominant performance left no doubt, as she took gold with a 29-second gap over German U23 world TT champion Antonia Niedermaier, who claimed silver. Luxembourg’s Marie Schreiber completed the podium, crossing the line in 41’32” to secure bronze.
The event, which began under dry conditions, quickly transformed as heavy rain moved in, making the course treacherous for the competitors. Early on, it was Schreiber who set the standard with a time of 41’32”, which held for much of the race. As the rain intensified, many riders struggled, but Ahtosalo powered through, posting the fastest time and unseating Schreiber from the top spot.
Belgian riders Febe Jooris and Marthe Goossens showed promise early in the race. Jooris briefly held third position at the 20km mark, but she faded in the final stretch, finishing in eighth place with a time of 43’51”. Goossens, who started just after her compatriot, clocked 52’82” to secure ninth.
As the rain continued to pour, Niedermaier found herself battling for silver. Despite tough conditions, she managed to slot herself between Ahtosalo and Schreiber, finishing 29 seconds down from the Finnish champion. Jooris and Goossens were left hoping for a stronger finish in their home country, but neither was able to break into the top five.
2024 Women’s U23 European Championships Time Trial result
Results powered by FirstCycling.com
Main photo credit: UEC-Limburg
