As expected, the Marly Grav Race in Valkenburg delivered a high-level battle on the demanding gravel roads and climbs of South Limburg. In the men’s elite race, pre-race favourite Wout van Aert lived up to his status with a decisive solo move and a convincing victory.
The race unfolded on a selective course packed with short, steep climbs. It was on one of these efforts that van Aert made his move, accelerating clear of a strong leading group that included world champion Florian Vermeersch, Belgian champion Niels Vandeputte, Rick Ottema and Jonathan Vervenne. His attack quickly created a gap of around 20 seconds. Despite the strength of the chasing quartet, the gap gradually increased.
By the time Van Aert reached the Shimano Experience Center in Valkenburg, he had turned his initial move into a clear victory, crossing the line 44 seconds ahead of the four riders sprinting behind for the remaining podium places. Vandeputte got second with Ottema jumping his wheel centimeters ahead of Vermeersch to take third spot.
In the women’s elite race, a strong and well-balanced group of seven riders shaped the finale, featuring world champion Lorena Wiebes, Larissa Hartog, Ilse Pluimers, Amandine Muller, Nele Laing, Carolin Schiff and Malou Eisen. The group stayed together deep into the final, before the decisive sprint was contested by five riders at the front. In the fast finish, Wiebes once again confirmed her speed, taking the win ahead of Hartog and Pluimers, completing a race that, just like the men’s event, saw the top favourite deliver.
