Lars Boom gave a huge push for second place in stage six of the Eneco Tour on the slopes of La Redoute today. The Dutchman the Belkin Pro Cycling Team finished behind Tim Wellens (Lotto-Belisol), who gained the overall lead thanks to his win. Boom remains second with one stage to go and has a good shot of taking the overall win.

“I had a really good day,” said Boom to the Belkin webpage. “Last year, I struggled on the La Redoute once and wasn’t able to get back in the race after that. I’m very happy with this performance. It’s too bad that Wellens snatched the white jersey.”

Boom thanked his team-mates afterwards.

“I was able to ride in the front the whole day, especially at times when it counted. They have worked very hard for me again. Real class.”

Due to his good form, Boom still believes in his chances to take the overall victory.

“Tomorrow is going to be another tough day. Seven seconds seems a bit too much, but we’re going to make a plan. During the race we will try to anticipate the moves as much as possible. Today, was a key stage for the overall and it went well."

Sports Director Merijn Zeeman was delighted with Boom’s performance.

“Lars was very strong today. He went all-in for the jersey. He tried to chase down Wellens all by himself on the penultimate climb and actually did a five-kilometre time trial. In the end, he comes up seven seconds too short for the white jersey, but he’s not a real climber and has done a fantastic job.”

The other riders of the Belkin Pro Cycling Team also received words of praise from Zeeman.

“I have great admiration for Lars’ performance, but I certainly appreciate the fighting spirit of the others, as well. Barry Markus and Bauke Mollema abandoned early, but Sep Vanmarcke attacked twice, Bram Tankink fought until the very last metres.... All the boys did great. I’m very proud!”