At the final round of the 2021 UCI Trial World Championships, it looked like there was going to be a Spanish three-way battle between local riders Borja Conejos (770 points), Eloi Palau (740 points) and Alejandro Montalvo (730 points), who were 140 points ahead of fourth-placed Thomas Pechhacker (AUT, 590 points).
Going into the final, it looked like Palau would take the gold as he went into the final set with 190 points.
Could Palau do it? Many will remember that in 2019 Palau suffered injuries to his hand and eye after accidentally detonating a World War II bomb in the Italian Dolomites while riding with Sergi Llongueras. In Vic this weekend, both showed that they were in fighting form and world class. Unfortunately, the fairytale ending did not happen: Palau had to settle for bronze after a final round of 10 points.
Therefore, Montalvo seemed to be ready for gold with 240 points. That was until Conejos enjoyed a fantastic final run of 60 points to win Spain’s first Elite 20″ title since Abel Mustieles Garcia in 2017. “I’m a world champion,” said a delighted Conejos after the race. “My concentration was good, I gave my best in every stage and I got it right in the last stage. I’m delighted.”
