Cathalijne, Britt, Julia, Catalina, Amelia and Ilse lined up for the Brabantse Pijl, a race with a very strong field with many World Tour teams. They did really well with an excellent 26th place for Amelia Sharpe who even put on an attack in the final.
It was a super hard race today. I enjoyed all the climbs and had good legs with a small attack at ten kilometres to go. Really cool to still be up there with some of the best in the final. I am really looking forward to Amstel Gold Race on Sunday!
Catalina was also visible at the front of the race many times. She finished 47th, only a few seconds behind Amelia’s group.
The race was really fun and fast. I personally learned about communication with everyone in the team today. It’s really important to keep things smooth and stress free.
There is still so much to learn but i believe we have improved from the last races and its really motivating to see teammates in the front group!
There were plenty of lessons learned today and I am looking forward to the next one.
Sports director Brent Van Ballenberghe describes the race.
We had a really fast start. After five kilometres there was a crash with Julia and Britt. Britt had to swap bikes but managed to return to the group. Unfortunately she didn’t feel too good after that and abandoned on the local laps. Cathelijne also didn’t finish the race.
Amelia, Catalina, Ilse and Julia were always close together. That was something I had asked them. They kept fighting for what they were worth. When a group of six riders rode clear in the final lap. It was no shame no one of the team could follow. Amelia attacked from the chasing group but was caught again.
My general idea is that the team rode a strong race and got some good results. There were really strong riders at the start line here. Our riders are still very young and managed to be part of this race in a good way. I am confident for the upcoming races.