50 days prior to the start of the 16th Craft BIKE Transalp powered by Sigma the field falls into place and ensures mountain biking at its best due to some true top-class entries fielded in recently. The star-studded line-up of another exciting chapter in the history of this MTB classic is led by reigning champions Alban Lakata /AUT) and Robert Mennen (GER). Besides the two Topeak Ergon Racing athletes, several other international pros have registered for the eight-day stage race from Mittenwald to Riva del Garda (July 13 – 20).

 

Team Bulls features the likes of seven-time Transalp winner Karl Platt (GER) who will race with his new team mate Urs Huber (SUI), the 2011 Transalp winner, who joined the German squad this year. The second formation consists of Thomas Dietsch (FRA) and Tim Boehme (GER) which came in third in 2009.

 

The two Swiss racers Konny Looser (2011) and Thomas Stoll (2009) have earned one Transalp title each already, but with different partners. In 2013, the new BiXS-Wheeler iXS Pro Team riders will chance their luck again.

 

Another new team is also part of the inner circle of title aspirants. 2012 German Champion Markus Kaufmann (GER) will give it a shot with his new Centurion-Vaude team member Jochen Kaess (GER). In addition, Italy's 2004 World Champion Massimo de Bertolis and his fellow countryman Johann Pallhuber who rounded out the 2011 podium as third hope to repeat their great performance from two years ago for the stage town of San Martino di Castrozza.

 

Last but not least, Christoph Sauser (SUI) and his Specialized Racing partner Max Knox (RSA) should also be on the list. Although it's a Transalp first for the Swiss racer, the 2011 World Champion has proven his stage race skills many times before winning both, the Cape Epic and the Trans Germany, several times. Knox, who finished the 2007 Transalp in tenth position, is also in great shape coming out first at the marathon in Clarens in his home country beginning of May. 

 

Swiss-British duo favorite in women's category

 

On the women's side of things, there is one team outshining all others. Milena Landtwing (SUI) and Sally Bigham (GBR) of Topeak Ergon Racing are aiming to keep hold to their title just like their male team mates of Topeak Ergon Racing.

 

However, they also have to keep an eye on several other competitors. Sara Mertens (BEL) and Laura Turpijn (NED) of C-Bear are strong and want to mix it in the top.

 

In addition, Yolandi Du Toit (RSA) and Aurélie Halbwachs (MRI) have high hopes for their first ever Transalp participation. From July 13 on, the two Africans will find out if they can tie on to their good results on their home continent in Europe.