Lore De Schepper blasts to the podium and secures the green jersey in the Gracia Orlova

Lore De Schepper from the AG Insurance – Soudal U23 team captured second place in the 36th edition of the Gracia Orlova. This multi-day cycling race takes place in the Czech regions of Moravia-Silesia and Zlín, and partially in the Slovak Republic.

The race, held from April 25 to 28, started with a stage from Orlová to Štramberk, which covered a distance of 104.2 kilometers and ended with an uphill finish. Lore De Schepper demonstrated her strong legs by not only finishing on the podium but also securing the green jersey for the mountain classification. The finale culminated in a sprint where Lore powerfully surged forward to take second place.

"We worked together fantastically as a team throughout the race. Everyone was really in top form. During the first climb, I positioned myself to reach the top first. That moment motivated me to go for the mountain jersey, which I ultimately won thanks to the great support of my teammates. The finale was hectic, but I was well-positioned at the front with Julia and Mirre. I led out into the last corner before the steep cobblestone section, as planned for Julia. However, she insisted that I continue because she felt I was stronger. I then managed to maintain my position among the leaders. Unfortunately, I got somewhat boxed in on the last turn, which prevented me from sprinting fully for the win. But with a second place, I am certainly satisfied, and I hope to keep my jerseys," said a proud Lore.