Before the start of the X²O-cross in Hamme, Lucinda Brand was only 2 seconds behind leader Denise Betsema in the standings after 4 victories in 5 heats.
The world champion shot out of the starting blocks like a comet and dived into the field first. Betsema and Van Anrooij settled in the wheel of the rainbow jersey.
Still, the leading group did not stay together for long, because halfway through the cross, Brand chose the harepath. The Dutchman pulled out with a sharp acceleration and then didn’t look back.
While the world champion crossed the finish line alone after an impressive race, the battle for 2nd place was still exciting. In the sprint, Betsema eventually had to acknowledge her superior in Van Anrooij.
Brand now leads Betsema by 21 seconds.
Sanne Cant took 7th place at 2 minutes, just ahead of Riberolle. Alicia Franck was 12th.
fire vs. the pheasant:
Lucinda Brand skipped the race in Flamanville last weekend, but picked up as usual with the victory in Hamme, her 17th already of the season. “It may seem simple, but it is not,” she said afterwards.
“I couldn’t ask for more. It went really well today, I was immediately in the rhythm. There is always some doubt beforehand, how my body will react, if you are away for a weekend, but the cross rhythm was there immediately. “
“Although I did feel it, I had to go pretty deep, but luckily it went well and I’m happy that I am now in the lead in the standings, although it is certainly not over yet, the difference is not that big yet. “
“Lucinda is really very strong,” said Betsema. “She is in the shape of her life. I knew I would have a hard time today, especially on this course, but I am not giving up yet. Her lead in the standings is not that big and there are two more motos to follow.”
