Stage five of the Dutch stage race brought an individual test against the clock in Gelderland. Bäckstedt set a blistering time of 12:40, while Nooijen recorded 12:58 to take fourth place. Margaux Vigié also produced a strong ride, stopping the clock at 13:23 to maintain her position in the top five of the general classification.

“I gave it everything,” reflected Nooijen afterwards. “I think I rode a good time trial. I paced it well, but for the podium — and certainly for the win — I wasn’t strong enough today. The past few days have been tough of course, but I can be satisfied with this effort.”

Alongside Nooijen and Vigié, Carlijn Achtereekte also put in a solid performance on her familiar home roads. “I know the course really well and received great support from the car. There were lots of family and friends along the route, which gave me extra motivation. On top of that, my boyfriend was in the team car, which made it even more special.”