Frits Biesterbos sprints to 2nd in hectic sprint finale at Gooikse Pijl

The final race of the Belgian trio of one-day events Team Picnic PostNL had been taking part in this weekend on Sunday, saw them tackle the multiple laps of the large circuit at Gooikse Pijl. Taking place on a predominantly flat parcours, it would be the weather conditions the squad would have to be wary of, and from the start the team were represented in any larger splits and groups that looked to go clear.

Ultimately things settled down though and the race fell into a more familiar pattern with a break up the road, and the sprint teams controlling things behind. The team bided their time, looking to set up Frits Biesterbos for the fast finale. With the last attackers caught, the final ten kilometres were incredibly chaotic as the teams battled for control at the front. Team Picnic PostNL moved up well as a group, keeping Biesterbos towards the fore in the proverbial “washing machine” at the head of the peloton.

Coming under the flamme rouge, the squad dropped Biesterbos off, who then held the wheels well and battled to hold his position around the last corner. From there, race winner Kanter launched a strong sprint, with Biesterbos producing an equally good effort coming off of his wheel. Edging closer and closer, the line came just a bit too early for Team Picnic PostNL and Biesterbos who took a strong second place on the day.

Reflecting on the race Biesterbos said: “If you told me ahead of time I would be second at the finish then I’d be happy with that, but being this close in the end, it’s a shame not to have won. The guys did a good job to keep me at the front and drop me off. It was a really chaotic last kilometre in the washing machine and it was quick, so it wasn’t easy, but it was a nice second place in the end. Max launched his sprint really fast and he was strong. I could get a bit closer and closer to him but the line came too early. I’m content with the day though and it’s something to build on.”