From the start, the race was raced at a high pace, with several early attacks, including moves from Femke de Vries. However, no breakaway was given much room, as the peloton remained in control for most of the day, keeping the race together.

As the race progressed, attacks continued to come and go, but each time they were quickly brought back. It was only in the finale, after a selective phase on the final climbs, that the race truly opened up. In the end, only Nooijen and Markus remained at the front.

In the closing kilometers, the two worked together toward the finish, but it soon became clear the title would be decided in a sprint. Nooijen positioned herself well and proved to be the strongest in the final dash to the line, securing the national title.

“I knew I was out there with Femke Markus, so I had to beat her in a certain way. I tried to see how strong she was on the climbs. I fought all the way to the line, you only win a Dutch jersey at the finish line,” Nooijen said after the race.

Afterwards, the new champion reflected proudly on her performance and approach. “It was a really exciting race, but I’m very proud of how I rode and also of the team. It’s important that we keep this jersey within the team.”

For Nooijen, the national title marks a special moment in her career. “It means a lot to me. This is the biggest win I’ve had so far,” she concluded.