CCC-Liv opens its road season next Saturday in the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad. The Italian riders Sofia Bertizzolo and Soraya Paladin make their first appearance for CCC-Liv in competition. In addition to them, sports director Jeroen Blijlevens chooses Jeanne Korevaar, Riejanne Markus, Evy Kuijpers and Valerie Demey.
“Everyone is excited to be finally back on the road again. We have had a good winter with two perfectly run training camps. The riders have also individually done an excellent job. The Omloop Het Nieuwsblad is a first important showdown. After Saturday we know how we are doing as a team”, says sports director Jeroen Blijlevens.
“The course is the same as last year, meaning that it includes the previous final of the Tour of Flanders, with the combination of the Muur van Geraardsbergen and the Bosberg. Knowing that we do not have a top sprinter, we will certainly try to do something in the final. We certainly have a strong block at the start.”
Sofia Bertizzolo: “It will be a completely new experience for me. This will be my first participation in the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and my first race for CCC-Liv. I want to show myself in the race, but even more so, I hope to confirm that the preparation for the season has been good and that I am in good shape. The first race of the season is always a matter of exploring.”