Name: Â Astrid Bontzek
Hometown: Munich, Bavaria
How did you get into cycling? I’ve been participating in smaller triathlons for fitness for many years. In 2021, I joined Team Kirchmair Cycling through a partnership centered on indoor racing with the Facebook group “Fräulein Triathlon”, and that’s when my passion for indoor races and road cycling, especially in the Alps and taking part in Gran Fondo events, really took off. Thanks to the friendships I’ve built within the team, and learning from leader and coach Stefan Kirchmair (GF World and European Champion – and winner of many Gran Fondos and Zwift Races), cycling has become a major part of my life.
How many years have you been racing on Zwift? I have been racing on Zwift for almost 4 years now, and I’m absolutely hooked on it!
Are you part of a Virtual team? Yes, I’m a proud member of Team Kirchmair e-Cycling. We have a wide range of teams across all performance levels, especially for women, so you’re always well-supported, no matter your skill level. I’ve had the chance to meet and ride with some incredible athletes, and the camaraderie within the team is truly inspiring. In addition to racing, I also love leading group rides for Kirchmair Cycling when I have the time and opportunity. It’s a lot of fun and a great way to connect with other cyclists in the community.
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What do you love most about racing? What I love most is being part of an amazing team. The support and encouragement from my teammates really motivate me to push beyond my limits. I also appreciate learning from Stefan Kirchmair’s expertise and contributing to the team’s improvement as we support each other’s growth. It’s not just about the competition but also about the team spirit and personal development.
What is your favourite style of race (e.g. points, scratch, iTT, TTT, Chase, duathlon)? My absolute favourites are Team Time Trials (TTTs) and Points Races. Both formats require not only individual strength but also strategic teamwork, which makes them so exciting!
What is your favourite Zwift women’s race series? I really enjoy the Iceni Race Series by Warrior Games. A huge THX to the organizing teams for creating such fantastic women-only race events!
What is your most memorable racing experience, inside or outside or BOTH? Indoors, I’ll never forget our victory with the “KIRCHMAIR Team Bees” at the WTRL TTT World Tournament 2022 in the Coffee Class Vienna (Mocha)! Outdoors, my most memorable experience was definitely the 2023 Ötztaler Radmarathon. It was a massive challenge, but crossing that finish line felt amazing and is one of the highlights of my cycling journey.
What is your favourite food to eat post race? After a short, intense indoor race, I usually go for a protein and carb shake – I don’t feel that hungry right away. But after a long outdoor marathon, I love having pasta or pizza for dinner!
What advice would you give to a woman entering her first Zwift race?Â
- Have fun!
- Use the draft – it makes a huge difference.
- Know the course – preparation is key. Use top race recons, like those from Zwift Insider or Si Bradely, to fully understand the course, and make sure you have the best possible setup for your race.Â
- You’re never too old to race – much respect and lots of Ride Ons to the OWLs (Older Women in Lycra)!
- And of course, give your fellow riders Ride Ons – supporting each other is what makes the Zwift community so special.
Any upcoming race you are looking forward to? I’m really looking forward to the next seasons of the Zwift Racing League, where I’ll be racing with “my girls” again!
Where can people follow your racing adventures? You can follow me directly on Zwift through my rider profile: zwift.com/eu/athlete/3126361
