Dutch rider Laura Molenaar of VolkerWessels clinched a commanding victory in the second stage of the Tour de Pologne Women, leaving the field in her wake on the undulating route from Krasnystaw to Kraśnik. Molenaar’s solo breakaway proved decisive, as she crossed the finish line with a notable 25-second lead over her closest pursuers.
“I can’t believe it,” exclaimed Molenaar after being awarded the prestigious ORLEN yellow jersey for her efforts. “This is my first UCI victory, so I’m very happy. I couldn’t have done it without my team. We planned to attack on the climb after 70 kilometres, and our strategy paid off.”
The stage was characterised by relentless competition under scorching conditions in the picturesque Roztocze region. Early efforts by the peloton to maintain a high tempo prevented any significant breakaways until the VolkerWessels team’s well-timed assault on a climb shattered the group, reducing the leading pack to just 24 riders. Notably absent from this select group was Stina Kagevi, the current ORLEN general classification leader.
Throughout the stage, teams like VolkerWessels, WCC Team, MAT ATOM Deweloper Wrocław, and the Polish national squad animated the race, with numerous attempts to break free. Czech rider Nikola Bajgerova of MAT ATOM Developer seized the opportunity to claim the blue LOTTO jersey for the most combative rider after a spirited performance in the intermediate sprints.
Reflecting on her achievement, Molenaar acknowledged the competitive spirit of the event and the support of the organisers: “The race is very well organised; it looks like a Pro-level event. I’m grateful to everyone involved.”
Katarzyna Wilkos from MAT ATOM Deweloper Wrocław, who finished second in the stage, expressed satisfaction with her team’s performance: “Of course, I am very happy. We secured a podium finish, and we’re in a strong position in the general classification. Tomorrow is another day, and we’ll continue to fight for victory.”
Czesław Lang, General Director of the Tour de Pologne Women, echoed the excitement surrounding the race: “I am very happy because I love watching the women race. They don’t hold back; we saw a fast pace from the start. Katarzyna Wilkos took second place, so I think the third stage will be just as exciting.”
2024 Tour de Pologne Women Stage 2 result
Results powered by FirstCycling.com
