Last weekend on the sunny Croatian island of Pag the third international edition of Granfondo Pag Cycling on the Moon was held with hundreds of riders from across Europe racing 85 kilometers over barren lunar landscapes reminiscent of Mont Ventoux, but it was an 18 year-old Croatian star who stole the show.

This year with a time of 1:57:49, Nikolas Gojkovic (Zadar Cycling Club) added a Granfondo Pag – Cycling on the Moon title to his palmares. As a three-time Croatian National Junior Road Champion victory is nothing new for Gojkovic, nonetheless, the youngster was thrilled to win the event on his first try.

“I am overjoyed with the victory and thank the hosts and organizers for the excellently organized race. See you next year,” said Gojković afterwards.

Anthony Bilic (1:57:49) came up a wheel short in the final sprint to finish in second place, while third place went to Matija Meden (1:57:54). 2022 UCI Gran Fondo World Champion Igor Kopse (1:58:17) narrowly missed the podium, finishing in fourth place. 

Erica Jesenko (JB Team) won the women’s race in 2:11:08 with Julia Nowak (2:25:33) and Maja Kokalj Gram (2:25:33) in second and third place respectively.

Complete Granfondo Pag results HERE.

Photos/Media: Granfondo Pag/Denis Peros