Ralf Kropp competed in the 14th Harz Mountains Mountainbike Marathon last Sunday in Friedrichsbrunn/Germany. Braving the low temperatures, the riders had to pass ditches and puddles. A leading party quickly formed itself, which gained more distance following the second ascent. Kropp was unfortunately unable to keep up with the pack's incredible speed throughout the first ascents. As of the third lap, he started catching up and succeeded in overtaking a few of these leading riders. The result:- Ralf crossed the finish line in 8th place in the total ranking and an impressive third place in the masters category.