Marianne Vos’ return in the peloton did not go as planned. Our top-rider crashed in the almost 2 kilometres prologue of the BeNe Ladies Tour in Vlissingen. Jeanne Korevaar was the best WM3-rider in the opening stage of the four-day-race (12th, + 0,07). Annette Edmondson won.

“I had been looking forward to this moment for a long time. It’s a pity to have to stand on the sideline due to a fracture. It was not due to a lack of enthusiasm and the first couple of 100 metres went very well”, says Marianne.

Marianne had to disregard a fast time in the short prologue after a turn. “I felt that I was almost past the turn and started to peddle which loosened the back wheel. Before I knew it, I fell on my right side. Luckily, my collarbone held out”, says Marianne.

“It’s frustrating to start a stage race like this. I do not have major injuries, so I will get through the night alright”, according to Marianne. “The general classification is no longer an option, but that was anyway not a major objective. It’s key to forget this false start and to re-focus for tomorrow.”

Challenging stages ahead
“Generally speaking, we have raced a good prologue and performed in line with our possibilities. In such a short time trial, it is tricky to adjust in case you lost some time. A pity of Marianne’s misfortune. We have to reflect what we can correct in the next couple of days. There are some challenging stages ahead”, says DS Eric van den Boom.