The day following her victory in the Dutch stage race’s fourth stage, Markus once more demonstrated her top shape. The number three of the past European Time Trial Championship set the fastest time at the first intermediate point and the finish. Only the French rider Cordon-Ragot managed to be faster than Markus on both points. Three seconds separated the Team Jumbo-Visma rider from another stage win.

Additionally, Karlijn Swinkels and Anna Henderson also rode a respectable time trial. The riders of the Dutch team finished seventh and tenth, respectively. Thanks to her strong time trial, Markus is now fourth in the general classification. Swinkels dropped one place in the ranking and is third.

Markus admits that she has made the most of her time trial. “It was a good time trial and I really couldn't go any faster. Then there is no reason not to be satisfied. Of course, second place is never satisfying, especially if the winner only finished three seconds ahead of you. Nevertheless, I am pleased with my performance today.”

The last stage of the Simac Ladies Tour is scheduled for tomorrow. The Dutch champion does not anticipate the final stage will drastically alter the overall standings. “Maintaining our two positions in the top five is our most important goal. Even if moving up will be challenging, we will continue to fight and do our best for the stage win tomorrow.”