Justine Ghekiere cements place in QOM standings

Justine Ghekiere cements place in QOM standings

Our riders enjoyed another strong day at the Spanish race.

Justine Ghekiere remained in the fight for the coveted best climber jersey at the first Grand Tour of the season, at the end of the challenging stage four, that took place between Pedrola and Borja, over a 116km course featuring two classified ascents: Alto El Moncayo and Puerto de El Buste.

AG Insurance – Soudal’s Belgian was active the entire day, joining what looked to be a dangerous move early in the stage and scoring maximum points on the first ascent. Despite a strong effort from Justine and her breakaway companions, the peloton reeled them in before the top of El Buste, just as the general classification contenders began showing their intentions, the attacks they launched fragmenting the bunch and leaving only a small group at the front, that included Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio, who finished just outside the top ten.

“I’m a bit disappointed because I came up short on the second climb. It was a question of finding the best solution in a complicated moment. A group of eight riders went in the breakaway, and I had to choose between closing the gap or bridging across. I went for the latter, but in the end, we got caught again and on the last climb I hadn't the legs to battle for the QOM-points. On the other hand, I felt good and still have a lot of motivation for the next couple of days, when I will give my best to fight for this prestigious jersey”, said Justine after cementing her second place in the mountain classification, where she sits just two points off the lead.

"Today was a really good day for us. The team was incredible, keeping Justine and me safe and well positioned all stage. Justine showed amazing fighting spirit and commitment going for the QOM points — unfortunately, she just missed out on securing the jersey, but I’m super proud of her efforts. I felt strong on the final climb and was happy to stay with the front group over the top and into the fast finish. I’m finding my flow again and moving up step by step on GC. Huge thanks to my teammates and staff for their amazing support, we’re ready for the big mountains tomorrow", concluded Ashleigh Moolman-Pasio after the fourth stage.