The Belgian stage race ended in the best possible way for Brand and Lidl-Trek
A test of character, as is in her nature, allowed Lucinda Brand and Lidl-Trek to put the icing on the cake at the Baloise Ladies Tour. After yesterday’s success in the time trial, which also saw her move into the purple jersey as General Classification leader, Brand doubled up by crossing the line fourth in the final stage to secure the overall success.
Brand’s joy at winning the fifth GC title of her career is, of course, shared with teammates Ilaria Sanguineti and Lisa Klein. For the entire 121 kilometers of today’s stage, the pair ensured that Lucinda’s overall lead was never at risk, firstly by keeping the breakaway at a safe distance and secondly, by positioning her perfectly for the bunch sprint finish.
Baloise Ladies Tour 2023 - 9th Edition - 4th stage - Deinze - Deinze 121.1 km - 16/07/2023 - Lucinda Brand (NED - Lidl - Trek) Ilaria Sanguineti (ITA - Lidl - Trek) Lisa Klein (GER - Lidl - Trek) - photo Rafa Gomez/SprintCyclingAgency©2023
Thanks to Brand’s success, the amount of victories of Lidl-Trek women team are now three. One success for the men team. From June 30th, when Lidl-Trek made its official debut, the teams have always managed to score in the races they attended.
All eyes will now be on the Tour de France Femmes, from 23 to 30 July, where Lucinda Brand will be among the expected protagonists.
Lucinda describes her satisfaction with the result:
“Well, we had a mission this morning, to bring the jersey home. Even though we were a small team at the start, we were so motivated, so strong. I’m very proud and thankful for what the girls did today. They always had the situation under control. Lisa spent almost the whole day on the front of the peloton and Yaya took care of me every minute. It was an example of perfect teamwork. Winning in this way makes it even more special. I’m super happy, it’s a really nice success.
“I spent some good time training at altitude before this race. Day by day, I had better feelings, but I needed to race to turn those feelings into facts. I think the great performance I was able to do at Baloise Ladies Tour gives me a strong boost of confidence approaching the Tour de France in the best way, both in condition and in morale. I know it’s going to be a super hard event, but having won here, makes me feel ready for the challenge. I can’t wait to fight with my teammates to leave a mark on the race!”
