Marlen Reusser (Team SD Worx-Protime): “I’m missing 5% of my best shape”

May 1 ^st 2024 - 18:16 [GMT + 2]

The strong group at the front was formed pretty quickly. We had 6 out of the 19 riders at the front, so the move was ideal for us. We knew that there were going to be echelons all day long, so we kept pushing for this one to go up the road. Towards the final, we knew we had to play our strength in numbers. Mischa [Bredewold] and Demi [Vollering] attacked, and I went with [Kristen] Faulkner but I just couldn’t follow her on the decisive hill. I think I’m not back yet on my 100% shape after Covid and that Flanders crash. I really missed the right move for my team. After the climb, Faulkner was gone and we had to chase back. We couldn’t make it. It’s a bit sad that we couldn’t make the best out of our strength in numbers. To be honest, I am a little bit disappointed. We were ready for echelons from kilometre 0 and it was a bit the case, indeed. We have a very strong team overall, with Demi and Niamh super strong in the climbs. Usually I’m very strong too, but right now I’m missing 5% of my best shape. I’m sure we will do very well in the coming stages, so watch out for us!