After a blistering final ascent of the Cauberg, Simon Geschke came across the line at Amstel Gold Race in sixth place for Team Giant-Shimano today.

 

Tom Dumoulin tried his luck on the run in to the final climb but at the bottom of the ascent the race was back together.

 

The touch paper was lit as the strongest gave it everything to try and get away and over the top of the climb it was Philippe Gilbert (BMC) who came through on top finishing just ahead of a small group, with Simon winning the sprint behind from six or seven riders.

 

“I’ve never been so happy with sixth as today,” said Geschke after the finish. “Everyone was on the limit up the Cauberg and I just got on to the group at the top.

 

“No one was working though and the finish came really quick. On one hand it is a pity as I was just 100m away from the podium but I am still very happy with sixth.”

 

Team Giant-Shimano coach, Aike Visbeek said:

 

“Today we went for a top 10 so sixth is a good result here.

 

“The plan was to bring the guys to the front for the Cauberg and they did a good job in this with six guys at the front at this point.

 

“I was a bit nervous when the move went over the top but we decided not to chase as there were still a lot to race. When it was all back together, Tom tried a move before the Cauberg but in hindsight this proved a bit too early. He still held on for a top 20 though which was really promising.

 

“Simon did a really strong ride at the end and to still have it in his legs to take the sprint shows he has the level to contest these one day races. I’m proud of the job the guys did today.”

 

Tom Dumoulin added:

 

“I tried my luck with a late attack before the Cauberg, as it looked like a good move but I had to recover before the climb.

 

“I came past a lot of riders on the climb and even though I was on my limit I found a good group and had something for the sprint at the end. This is good in terms of my development and I think I was capable of a top 10 today.”