Clara Copponi claimed her maiden win for Lidl-Trek at the Schwalbe Women’s Classic, and at the same time made a strong application for most stylish celebration of the year. Knowing the win was hers, the French sprinter posted up, arms crossed in nonchalance as she crossed the line. The move was less an act of bravado, rather an in joke with the Lidl-Trek staff. “It was a deal with the soigneurs to do this [celebration],” explained Copponi at the finish. “It was a joke, but I was feeling good the day before the race.”
The Team was confident in the speed of Copponi to get the job done, and went into the race with the plan built around her. Clara would stay tucked away in the peloton, saving her energy for the finish whilst her teammates remained attentive at the front of the peloton. “For me, [the job] was to stay in the wheels and wait for the sprint, and my teammates would follow the attacks or attack [themselves]. We did the plan and the race was great!”
The 4km circuit in central Adelaide perhaps didn’t lend itself to the most exciting racing – that is until the final two laps when Chloé Dygert (CSZ) attacked with Rachele Barbieri (TPP) in her wheel. The move of these two riders sent alarm bells throughout the bunch, which reacted quickly. Lidl-Trek’s experienced Aussie, Amanda Spratt, was quick to react to the danger, and moved to the front of the bunch to help reel in the leading duo.
Copponi was well placed going into the sprint and just needed to trust her speed and her instincts. “I was in a good wheel I think, I was not stressed and I knew I didn’t have to go too early. I just waited for the right moment, and when Georgia [Baker] went full gas I just went full gas too! A win is always important, and especially in the beginning of the season. It’s super good and I think it will be a good season for me!”
Clara’s time with the press ended with one final question:
What is your Goal for the season?
“To win again, as much as possible.”
