Italian rider Elisa Longo Borghini finished 10th in the Road Race at the European Championships in France. In the decisive moment, she tried to chase down the eventual winner, Demi Vollering, who proved to be simply the strongest today.
The race covered 116.1 kilometers from Privas to Guilherand-Granges and represented, for many top contenders, a chance for redemption after the disappointment of the World Championships. In the demanding finale, the big names came into play.
A first attack from the Dutch rider Vollering created a select group at the front. Later, on a tough uphill section, only four riders remained in contention: Vollering and Longo Borghini, joined by another Dutchwoman, Anna van der Breggen, and Poland’s Kasia Niewiadoma.
The second acceleration by Demi Vollering proved decisive. Initially, the only rider able to respond was UAE Team ADQ’s Elisa Longo Borghini, but after a strong effort she had to ease off, being overtaken by Niewiadoma and Van der Breggen. Despite a determined chase, she eventually ran out of energy and crossed the line in 10th place.
(ph. @gettysport)
