Lara Gillespie of UAE Team ADQ secured a stunning victory in the Elimination Race at the UEC European Track Championships in Heusden-Zolder, Belgium.
Despite two early crashes involving multiple riders that disrupted the race and caused track damage, Gillespie displayed remarkable composure, maintaining a strong position at the front during each elimination sprint.
In the thrilling finale, Gillespie outpaced Dutch competitor Lisa van Belle and Belgian rider Helene Hesters. In a decisive sprint against Hesters, Gillespie surged ahead to claim the gold medal with an impressive lead.
Gillespie will continue her campaign tomorrow in the Omnium event, followed by the Points Race and the Madison alongside teammate Mia Griffin this weekend.
This triumph adds to her World Championship bronze medal from 2024 and builds on her stellar start to 2025, which already includes the Intermediate Sprint title at the UAE Tour last week with the team.
Reflecting on her victory, Lara Gillespie said: “This is such a special moment. I’ve dreamt of this for so long. I feel strong and confident after the UAE Tour and our team training camp. I’m deeply grateful for the support from UAE Team ADQ, my national team, and my coaches who continuously help me improve. Today was an incredible experience, and I’m excited for what’s to come.”
(ph. @facepeeters)
