Team BikeExchange-Jayco will wrap up their Belgian classics campaign tomorrow as a small but might squad takes on Scheldeprijs.
Injuries and illness mean that the Australian outfit takes to the start line with four riders, but the team remains confident despite their lack of numbers.
The race is predicted to end in a sprint and the four-rider squad is well-equipped for a fast finish with Georgia Baker, Arianna Fidanza and Alex Manly all capable of being in the mix, while Jess Allen will play a valuable support role.
The peloton will face several laps around Schoten, with the wind always a potential factor in this part of the world. The short Guizza climb can provide a launchpad for attacks, but the day looks most likely to end in a bunch sprint.
Team BikeExchange-Jayco Line-Up:
Jessica Allen (AUS)
Georgia Baker (AUS)
Arianna Fidanza (ITA)
Alex Manly (AUS)
Georgia Baker:
“We are starting with a smaller team due to illness, but we are still motivated to have a good race.
Last year it was a bunch sprint so it could potentially be the same this year, but we have to be prepared for anything and take opportunities when they come. We are expecting the weather to play a deciding role with rain and wind on the cards.
Once we enter the local laps it will be important for us to be aware and in good position to avoid any trouble.”
Martin Vestby (Head Sport Director):
“The race is really known as a sprinter’s race, it hasn’t been on for the women for that many years, so it’s a bit new for the women, but in the past, it’s always been seen as a sprinter’s race and we expect it to be the same this year, even if the wind can play towards the final.
We’re a bit damage with casualties after the spring here, so we have a smaller team, but we have a strong team for doing a good sprint, and that’s what we’re going to focus on.”
2022 Scheldeprijs – Race Details:
Wednesday, 6th April: Schoten – Schoten, 138.1km
Photo: Getty Sport