The Sparkassen Münsterland Giro, 188.5 kms from Enschede (DE) to Munster (DE), was the last race of Philipp Walsleben as a professional cyclist. He crossed the finish line in 21st position in 4 hours, 14 minutes and 5 seconds, after a thrilling race won by the British Mark Cavendish.
On August 5th, during the stage four of the Tour of Norway, the German rider announced his retirement from professional cycling. He went on winning that race, his second victory of the season after the great success in the opening stage of the Boucles de la Mayenne in France.
Born in Potsdam in 1987, Walseben started his career as professional cyclist in 2002 and has been a part of Alpecin-FENIX team since the 2009 (formerly named BKCP–Powerplus). He competed professionally in road racing but it was cyclo-cross the specialty where he won Under-23 World Championship title in 2009 and the German national title on six occasions. After almost 20 years of professional races he announced his retirement.
Thanks for all the energy and the commitment to the Alpecin-FENIX team Philipp. We wish you good luck in all your new challenges!