Belkin got their Vuelta a Espana off to a mixed start. While Robert Gesink and Wilco Kelderman both felt strong, the third GC rider Laurens Ten Dam lost time.

The Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM finished eighth in the team time trial, the opening stage of the Vuelta a España today. The green-black train set a time of 14 minutes and 32 seconds on the 12.6-kilometre course through Jerez de la Frontera. Movistar was 21 seconds faster, won and put its rider Jonathan Castroviejo in the first red jersey. 

The Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM arrived at the line with five men, Stef Clement, Robert Gesink, Wilco Kelderman, Paul Martens and Maarten Tjallingii. Laurens ten Dam lost 1’26” on Movistar. 

“I’ve seen a good team today,” said Sports Director Nico Verhoeven satisfied. “The men were on the limit. Unfortunately, Laurens lost some time, but besides that I am very happy with this TT. It’s important that Laurens doesn’t lose his morale now. The mountains are yet to come, and that is where he excels. We’ll see a lot of climbs over the next three weeks. The field of riders is very strong this Vuelta, stronger than in the Tour, but as a team we’re ready.” 
 

Gesink was happy with the way the team time trial went.

“I think this was a maximum performance. We had a bit of bad luck by losing Laurens quickly. Not long after that Robert Wagner was dropped because of a flat. We have trained in a specific order and that got messed up, but we reacted very well. I was able to put in a couple of good pulls. 

"I feel good. I want to fight for a top ten spot along with Wilco Kelderman. I’m impressed by how strong he is.” 
 

Kelderman said his team-mate is right.

“After the Tour of Utah, I had a little bit of rest and today was good. I’m feeling very strong at the moment. I’m aiming for a good overall, top fifteen, hopefully better. Today was a strong team effort.” 

Tjallingii was one of the engines of the team and was glad to contribute to the fine eighth place.

“We reached a high speed. Not everyone was able to follow and that says enough. I think we achieved the maximum possible with the team today.”