Few, if anyone, had predicted this outcome. Going into the WTCS Grand Final in Wollongong, all calculations pointed to either Cassandre Beaugrand or Beth Potter as the likely overall World Champion. But in a race that defied every script, it was Germany’s Lisa Tertsch who emerged victorious – not only taking the Grand Final win but also sealing the overall WTCS title in stunning fashion.
The fireworks began on the bike, where the main contenders immediately took control. A powerful lead group formed with Tertsch, Beaugrand, Potter, Emma Lombardi, Jessica Fullagar, and Bianca Seregni – a who’s who of this year’s WTCS circuit. Working smoothly together, they carved out a one-minute gap over the large chase pack, setting up what promised to be an epic foot race for the world title.
Early in the 10K run, the six leaders stayed tightly bunched, while Leonie Periault and Diana Isakova began to claw their way back from behind. By the halfway mark, the Frenchwoman and the Russian had cut their deficit in half – closing to within thirty seconds of the leaders. That was when the drama truly began.
First to falter was Beaugrand. The French star, usually so composed, couldn’t hold the relentless pace and soon stepped off the course – her title hopes evaporating. Moments later, Potter also began to fade, losing time and positions with every kilometer as her dream of the world crown slipped away.
Sensing opportunity, Tertsch struck. The German surged in the closing stages, breaking clear and never looking back. With a display of grit and perfect timing, she crossed the line in 1:56:50 – claiming the biggest victory of her career. Fourteen seconds later, Italy’s Bianca Seregni secured a brilliant second place, with France’s Emma Lombardi finishing third, another twelve seconds adrift.
Potter eventually came home in 16th, more than two minutes behind – a stunning turn of events that handed the overall WTCS title to a jubilant Lisa Tertsch.
You’ll find the final WTCS-standings here.