“It was really nice to receive all the birthday wishes during the race,” explained Teunissen. “I tried to escape from the bunch at the Waseberg with some other riders, but unfortunately we didn’t get away. That was the moment that we took the decision to focus on the final sprint. The lead-out was nearly perfect, even though I was a little bit boxed in.”

Sportive director Merijn Zeeman: “I saw a really strong team today. We particularly took the initiative in the final of the race. After we climbed the Waseberg for the last time, there were three of our riders in the front. The breakaway did not get away because the cooperation was not how it should be. We were aiming for a good result with Mike and I am glad we achieved this.”