Another podium finish for Lara Gillespie and UAE Team ADQ. The Irish sprinter secured an excellent third place today at the Danilith Nokere Koerse, a 133.3 km race from Deinze to Nokere.
It was a demanding finale, with a slightly uphill sprint that required perfect timing. Gillespie fought until the very end, only beaten by winner Lotte Kopecky (Team SD Worx – Protime) and Charlotte Kool (Fenix-Premier Tech), still claiming a valuable podium result.
As expected, the race was intense and unpredictable throughout. UAE Team ADQ riders showed great teamwork and determination, consistently staying at the front of the peloton. In the first part of the race, young riders Eilidh Shaw and Milana Ushakova, alongside Sofie van Rooijen, controlled the pace and supported the team’s strategy.
In the finale, Megan Jastrab and Febe Jooris played a crucial role, closing down attacks and positioning team leader Lara Gillespie perfectly for the sprint.
Jastrab also attempted to join a two-rider breakaway, which was quickly brought back by the peloton. With 1.5 km to go, the final attack of the day was neutralized, setting up a bunch sprint finish.
After giving everything for the team, Jastrab pulled off, leaving Gillespie to launch her sprint. The Irish rider delivered a strong performance in the final meters, securing a well-earned third place.
(ph. Getty Sport)
