It was a strong team performance in Belgium
Elisa Balsamo sprinted to second place at the Lotto Grand Prix de Wallonie Dames on Wednesday, narrowly missing out on victory after a strong performance from Lidl-Trek throughout the Belgian one-day race.
With the race heading towards its demanding finale, the team took control of the peloton and managed the gap to the breakaway with precision, keeping the escapees within reach while positioning Balsamo for the decisive moments.
As the race entered its final phase, Margot Vanpachtenbeke made an important move, attacking on the late climbs and putting pressure on the other teams. Her effort helped keep the race under control and gave Lidl-Trek another card to play ahead of the uphill finish at the Citadel of Namur.
The late attacks were eventually neutralised, leaving a reduced group to contest the victory on the final climb. Balsamo positioned herself well and launched her sprint on the uphill drag, fighting all the way to the line.
The Italian finished just behind Karlijn Swinkels, who took the victory, with Balsamo securing a strong second place.
After the team’s work throughout the day, the result capped a committed performance from Lidl-Trek on a demanding course, with Balsamo once again showing her ability to deliver a strong finish when the road rises.
Photo by Rhode Van Elsen/Getty Images
In Elisa's words
I think it was quite a good race. The team did a good job but I was eventually alone on the last climb. I had to find my way and it was a really fast pace but I am happy, I was feeling good, I could stay with the first riders. Just after the last corner to the left, UAE played the game well attacking with Gasparrini and I followed, but I wasted energy for the sprint and Swinkels came fast from the back. I couldn’t sprint more, but I need to be happy as it was a a hard final and I was there. I think in the end it was a good day.
