Kata Blanka Vas reacts to first podium of the year at World Cup Besancon: "I was close many times this winter"

Blanka Kata Vas claimed a well-deserved third place at the World Cup Besançon, finishing behind winner Fem van Empel and second-placed Lucinda Brand. The Hungarian rider was thrilled to finally reach the podium this season.

"I was close many times this winter, but now I'm finally on the podium. I'm very happy," Vas said happily after the race.

Reflecting on her performance and the challenging course, Vas shared her thoughts.

"I really enjoyed this lap. It was like surfing. I enjoyed the turns. It was hard to stay focused though. I was really tired in the last lap, so I kept making more and more mistakes. It was a shame that I had to let Brand go, but she was clearly stronger. She is always very strong in the last laps. So I wasn’t surprised. I just tried to stay focused and not make too many mistakes."

Looking ahead, Vas outlined her upcoming plans for the season, "I will do all the World Cups, but will skip the national championship. I will also go to Spain for training camp with the team. In the coming period I will focus more on training and I will prepare for the World Cup."