Luca Vierstraete time trials to impressive runner-up in Bretagne

Luca Vierstraete time trials to impressive runner-up in Bretagne

AG Insurance - Soudal leads the teams standings with one day to go.

Luca Vierstraete secured another solid result in a time trial race this season, a second place made even more remarkable by the fact it came from an elite field. Victorious this year in the Borlo TT and the U23 National Championships, the Belgian - who is present in the Bretagne Tour Ladies with the World Tour squad - showcased her remarkable skills against the clock.

Consisting of a hilly start and an undulating parcours that featured a 1.5km demanding climb not far from the finish, the 24.7km stage two was one that opened significant gaps between the general classification contenders. Luca was among the early starters and tapped out a solid rhythm throughout, averaging 47.72km/h. The 20-year-old completed the course in 30:51, enough to take what is arguably the most important result of her career so far.

“I had a good feeling since this morning and I was extremely motivated, because I wanted to prove myself in the discipline I love most. I am very happy with the feeling, and the coaching I got from the car was also great. I was able to maintain the speed on the last climb, and this is something that brings me quite a lot of satisfaction. Now I will focus on Sunday to help the team as much as I can”, said Luca after her effort.

Letizia Borghesi was another AG Insurance - Soudal rider to deliver a strong ITT, which helped the Italian cement her fourth place on the overall standings. Our squad had three riders in the top ten in Plomodiern, after Amandine Muller concluded seventh, putting AG Insurance - Soudal at the top of the team classification ahead of the final stage.