Ladies Another podium for Thalita de Jong in Basque Country

The one-day race in the Basque Country was marked by heavy rain today. "From start to finish," says Thalita de Jong. "Luckily, it often rains here in the Basque Country, so the roads weren't too slippery." The riders had to complete four big laps in Durango-Durango, followed by two smaller laps where they had to conquer the steep Goiuria Gaina. "I felt great today, consistently staying in the front, always riding comfortably uphill. Sterre (Vervloet) managed to stay with me for a long time. Along the way, I even managed to pick up the mountain points."

In the descent towards the finale, only three riders remained. De Jong had to navigate the final kilometers alongside Cédrine Kerbaol (CERATIZIT-WNT Pro Cycling Team) and Évita Muzic (FDJ-SUEZ). "I came off the front and Kerbaol was strong in the corners, causing Muzic to create a gap. Kerbaol pulled away alone. It was quite technical, and you know: once that happens, it's hard to catch up. Honestly, I'm quite disappointed. A third place in a UCI race is nice, but I really felt like I could win today."

Picture: Orbea