The Gravelking UCI Gravel World Series returned to the rugged Izerskie Mountains on Saturday, delivering a demanding edition of the Gravel Adventure in Jakuszyce (Poland), where Germany’s Anton Albrecht claimed an impressive solo victory after a perfectly timed attack.
Elite men: Albrecht makes the difference on the climb
The elite men’s race remained tightly contested deep into the second half, with a leading group of around 15 riders still together after 80 kilometres. As expected, the decisive moment came on the long 7.7km paved climb — a key feature of the course that has historically shaped the outcome of the race.
It was there that Anton Albrecht (GER) launched his winning move. The German quickly opened a gap that none of his rivals could close. From that point on, he rode a controlled and confident race to the finish, maintaining his advantage over the fast gravel run-in back to Jakuszyce.
Albrecht crossed the line with an average speed of 31.4 km/h, securing victory with a margin of 1 minute and 10 seconds.
Behind him, pre-race favourite Petr Vakoc (CZE) led the chase together with compatriot Filip Adel (CZE). The two fought it out for the remaining podium places, with Vakoc edging Adel in the sprint to take second.
Belgium’s Daan Grosemans delivered a strong ride to finish fourth, followed by Czech rider Matyáš Fiala in fifth place, completing the top five.
Elite women: Oosterwoud dominates on the same climb
The women’s race followed a remarkably similar pattern, with the decisive move also coming on the long climb after 80 kilometres.
Wendy Oosterwoud (NED) proved to be the strongest rider on the day, breaking away from her rivals on the ascent and quickly establishing a decisive gap. Once clear, she maintained her advantage across the remaining kilometres to take a convincing victory.
Oosterwoud completed the demanding 120 km course at an average speed of 26.7 km/h.
Switzerland’s Irina Lutzelschwab finished in second place at 2 minutes and 21 seconds, while Germany’s Romy Kasper secured the final podium spot at 6 minutes and 5 seconds. Top five was completed by Klaudia Czabok (POL) and Judith Krahl (GER).
