The vibe doesn't come across that way. It was always special when you saw other athletes or were together with them in the canteen. That's a shame for those who are taking part for the first time. On the other hand, we are happy that the Games can take place at all," said the 39-year-old. The mountain bikers are accommodated in Izu, a good two hours away from Tokyo. The track cyclists will also arrive there in the next few days.
Fumic and Maximilian Brandl are the German starters in the mountain bike race on Monday (8.00 am). "On Thursday we'll be able to walk the course for the first time. Then we'll cycle up on Friday," said Fumic. The veteran described the course as "the most challenging course we've ever had at the Olympics". It is "incredibly technical and incredibly steep", plus the high temperatures. It is expected to be up to 34 degrees on race day.
"The conditions suit me. I like it hot and humid, I finished eighth here in the test race," said Fumic. Brandl is aiming for a place in the top 10. The favourites are Swiss World Cup leader Mathias Flückiger and Dutchman Mathieu van der Poel.
© dpa-infocom, dpa:210721-99-465519/2
