Graat and Ryan first and second in Eurode Omloop
Tijmen Graat has won the Eurode Omloop. The 20-year-old Dutchman of the Jumbo-Visma Development Team launched his decisive attack with three laps to go. Teammate Archie Ryan was the only rider to catch Graat. The pair crossed the line side by side.
In Kerkrade, the Eurode Omloop marked the conclusion of the Schwalbe Topcompetitie, a series of national races. The Jumbo-Visma Development Team was well represented on the hilly course. In addition to Graat and Ryan, Menno Huising, Lars Boven, Owen Geleijn and Darren van Bekkum also started for the development team.
"We dominated the race from the start, which meant we never got into a tricky situation”, Graat said. "I launched my attack with three laps to go. My lead over the chasers was never big, but it was enough. In the end, Archie joined me. It was a great feeling to cross the line together.”
"It was my first race since the Tour de l'Avenir. That race was a bit disappointing for me. After a crash, I never reached my best level again. So, I was keen to prove myself today. It's nice to finish it off after such a team effort.”
It was the fourth win of the season for Graat, who will join the WorldTour team in 2025. The Jumbo-Visma Development Team has now won ten races this season.
Photos: Kimberlee Charlton
