This Wednesday, August 28th, the Renewi Tour kicked off, offering Gerben Thijssen his first opportunity to face off against an exceptionally high-level field of sprinters in a World Tour stage race.
The peloton of sprinters was marked by nervousness throughout this opening stage through Limburg. Well-positioned at key moments in the finale, the Intermarché-Wanty riders avoided the multiple crashes to guide their Belgian sprinter into the best position. Led notably by Biniam Girmay, making his return to competition since the Tour de France, local rider Thijssen took sixth place on the slightly uphill finish line in the streets of Bilzen.
Gerben Thijssen:
“I’m satisfied to finish sixth in such a high-level sprint, in this heat, knowing that of the three potential sprints this week, today’s was the least suited to me. The team did a great job to put me on the wheel of the two fastest riders in the last corner, Milan and Philipsen. We’re starting the Renewi Tour on a positive note, looking ahead to Friday and Saturday for my next sprint opportunities. I hope that I’ll be able to demonstrate my speed and continue on this momentum after my podium at the Tour de Pologne. I’m very happy with my level, after a Tour de France that served as a learning experience. I came out of it stronger because I wasn’t afraid to participate in a difficult finish today. I’ve especially gained courage and fighting spirit, which I showed today by mixing it up with the best sprinters in the world. Also, I’m also happy to be racing with Biniam again, after our unforgettable experience on the Tour. Seeing him lead me out today is gratifying and a great sign of confidence from the whole team.”
