Minsk 2019. Cyclist Vasil Kiryienka claims gold at 2nd European Games!

Men’s and Women’s Time Trial took place on the streets of Minsk on June, 25. Belarusian cyclist Alena Amialiusik was 1,5 seconds away from the winner’s podium. Nevertheless, Vasil Kiryienka was second-to-none in the men’s race.

Vasil competed in group 1 and covered the distance in 33.03,34. The rest of the time he waited for his main rivals’ results. The nearest competitor Nelson Oliveira lost 30 seconds. The top-three was closed by Czech Jan Barta (33.40,47).

«Preparation for the race went a bit unpredictable to be honest. I didn’t know what condition I’d be in before the start but I knew that I’d show good results. It was very important for me to win the gold medal at home competitions. I’m happy that I’ve lived up to expectations of coaching stuff and all the Federation that helped me throughout the run-up period. I heard some tells about my rival’s results along a comrade’s distance. It was important for my family and children to see how I work ‘live’. Surely, I dedicate this victory to my family. Those guys who were on podium today deserve this place and we often meet at the international competitions. For example, Oliveira outdistanced me at the last World Championship, so these guys are real professionals» - said Kiryienka. 

«Vasil claimed champion at the European Games in Baku. I guess he was the heavy favourite in Minsk, too. Until the very start of the 2nd European Games I wasn’t quite sure how much he could play himself in. After the road race I understood that we could medal.» –  said Vasil’s coach Vladimir Kuchinski. 

We congratulate Vasil and all the cycling team on showing the outstanding results!

Press Service of the NOC Belarus

Photos: minsk2019.by