Belgian 2nd on decisive stage to Geraardbergen

 

Tim Wellens put in a brave ride to move into the lead of the Renewi Tour in Belgium.

Despite suffering a slow front wheel puncture, Wellens was able to push through to the line in the front group and even taking second in the sprint to the line won by Mike Teunissen (Intermarche-Wanty).

  

Marc Hirschi and Wellens teamed up to form a select leading group of 8 riders, with the pair joining forces to hunt for the stage win.

  

Wellens: “I’m really happy to take the leaders jersey today. We came into this race aiming to win the GC and knew today would be a key day in that fight. I had a really good day on the bike, I felt really good. We had myself, Trentin and Hirschi as the ‘protected’ riders and we collaborated well.

 

 I was unlucky to have a flat tyre towards the end but also lucky that I didn’t lose too much tyre pressure so decided not to stop and change it. In the end I came very close to take the victory. I didn’t win but I think I can be happy with my day.”

 

 Mikkel Bjerg sits 5th also in the GC ahead of stage 4 from Beringen to Peer (179.4km).

  

Renewi Tour Stage 3 results

  

1.Mike Teunissen (Intermarche-Wanty) 3:40:17

2.Tim Wellens (UAE Team Emirates) s.t

3.Yves Lampaert (Soudal Quickstep) s.t

  

Renewi Tour General Classification after stage 3

 

1.Tim Wellens (UAE Team Emirates) 7:47:15

2.Yves Lampaert (Soudal Quickstep)+18’’

3.Jasper Stuyven (Lidl-Trek) +19’’