AG Insurance – Soudal Ready for Battle at Le Samyn des Dames

133.4 kilometres, 21 hills and cobbles form the backdrop for an open and attacking race towards Dour.

Today, Le Samyn des Dames is on the programme: a demanding 133.4 kilometre race starting in Quaregnon and finishing in Dour. With 21 hills, cobbled sections and often strong winds, it is once again a race that will force a selection and in which positioning will be crucial.

Last year, Gladys Verhulst-Wild finished just off the podium and today our French sprinter is aiming for another strong finish. Together with a close-knit AG Insurance – Soudal team, consisting of Fauve Bastiaenssen, Alana Castrique, Marthe Goossens, Ilse Pluimers and U23 riders Messane Brautigam and Marith Vanhove, we are heading to Hainaut with ambition.

"Le Samyn is a beautiful but tough race with cobbles and often a lot of wind. We are starting with a strong mix of WorldTour and Devo riders. For the latter group, this is an ideal opportunity to gain experience in a hectic race like this. Gladys, Ilse and Marthe are our spearheads for the final, which makes it slightly different from last year. The goal is clear: to be present at the decisive moments, to influence the race and to fight for a strong result." says team leader Fien Delbaere.