The UCI Gran Fondo World Series brought high-level racing to Serbia today, as the third edition of Gran Fondo Novi Sad delivered fast and selective action on the rolling roads of the Fruška Gora National Park.
In the 110 km granfondo, Russia’s Aidar Zakarin proved the strongest rider of the day, taking an impressive solo victory after a decisive move in the final phase of the race.
Zakarin holds off late challenge
The long-distance race, contested over a 110 km course with significant climbing through the Fruška Gora hills, saw an aggressive tempo from the start.
Zakarin attacked in the closing kilometres, opening a small but crucial gap on a reduced lead group. Despite a determined chase behind, he managed to hold on to the finish, crossing the line alone with an average speed of 39.1 km/h.
Home favourite Marko Stankovic (SRB) pleased the Serbian crowd by finishing second, just 11 seconds behind the winner. Germany’s Alexander Steffens completed the overall podium in third place after a strong ride in the front group.
Simenc dominates women’s race
In the women’s race, pre-race favourite Laura Simenc (SLO) confirmed her status as one of the leading granfondo riders in the world with a commanding performance.
The multiple world champion in both time trial and granfondo disciplines quickly distanced her rivals and rode to a clear solo victory. Simenc completed the 110 km distance at an average speed of 36.9 km/h.
Russia’s Nadezhda Pavlova secured second place but finished more than 15 minutes behind the Slovenian winner. Belgium’s Lieselotte Van Nuffelen rounded out the podium in third position, a further eight minutes down.
Strong performances in Mediofondo qualifiers
The shorter 77 km mediofondo also played a key role as qualifying distance for older age categories, with victories for experienced riders.
In the older men’s categories battling for qualification, Belgian Bernard Huyghe rode the fastest time, while in the women’s 50+ category, American Molly Van Houweling delivered another standout performance. The multiple world champion and former hour record holder once again showed her class in international competition.
