Chladoňová wins Slovakian time trial championship
At the Slovakian National Championships, Viktória Chladoňová claimed victory in the individual time trial. Over the 22-kilometre course, the Team Visma | Lease a Bike Women rider set the fastest time and secured the gold medal. It marks her first national title in the elite women’s category.
"To be the fastest here makes me incredibly happy and proud"
Having previously been crowned national champion as a junior, the young Slovak was making her debut at elite level. “It was my first time trial in the elite category”, Chladoňová said. “To be the fastest here makes me incredibly happy and proud.”
The warm temperatures and demanding course made it a challenging race. “The route itself wasn’t very technical, but the heat and the short climb made it quite a tough effort”, the 18-year-old talent explained. “Climbing suits me well in time trials, and I felt that’s where I could make the difference. I’m very pleased with this performance. It also served as a valuable test ahead of the upcoming Giro d’Italia Women.”
With the national title secured, Chladoňová will wear the Slovak time trial champion’s jersey in races this year. It marks a significant step in her career and a reward for the progress she has made since moving up to the elite ranks. This Saturday, Chladoňová will compete again in the Slovakian national road race championship.
Photo credit: _sn_nphotography
