Rydzek Triumphs in Dramatic Night Race at Home in Oberstdorf

Johannes Rydzek emerged victorious in the men’s Individual Compact competition at the FIS Nordic Combined Summer Grand Prix held in Oberstdorf, Germany.

Amidst surprisingly warm summer weather, Thomas Rettenegger of Austria showcased his skills by executing the longest jump of the day, reaching an impressive distance of 130 meters (141 points) on the Schattenbergschanze HS137. This performance allowed him to take an early lead and start first in the subsequent 7.5 km roller ski race through the city.

In second place after the jumps was Estonia's Kristjan Ilves, who made a landing at 125 meters (134.6 points), beginning the race just six seconds behind Rettenegger due to the fixed starting intervals. Switzerland's Pascal Müller rounded out the top three, jumping 126.5 meters for 131.8 points and entering the course 12 seconds after the leader.

The highly-anticipated night race delivered a thrilling spectacle marked by narrow time differences. Ilves quickly caught up to Rettenegger during the first lap, while a group of competitors including David Mach (+12.1 sec), Pascal Müller (12.4 sec), Terence Weber (+12.7 sec), and Rydzek (+13.1 sec) formed a chase pack behind them. By the time they reached the 3 km mark, the pursuers had closed the gap to the leaders, with Ilves taking charge of the pace. Unfortunately, Müller could not maintain the high speed and fell behind.

As the race unfolded towards the 6.8 km mark, Rettenegger also faltered, leaving Rydzek, Ilves, Weber, and Mach to navigate the final lap together. It was Rydzek, spurred on by the enthusiastic local crowd, who initiated an attack on the last uphill stretch—a move that his competitors were unable to match. He ultimately secured a stunning victory on home soil.

Ilves finished in second place, crossing the line 10.3 seconds behind Rydzek, while Mach took third place with a time that was 13.8 seconds off the winner's pace.

For detailed jump results, check the Men’s Individual Compact HS137 – 28.8.24, Oberstdorf page. For overall results, visit the Men’s Individual Compact HS137 – 28.8.24, Oberstdorf summary.