Jonathan Hivert took his first top 10 result as a Belkin rider when he sprinted to 7th in yesterday's tough Classic du Sud-Ardeche. The Frenchman was slightly disappointed with the outcome of a race that also was the scene of the debut of late signing Martijn Keizer.

Jonathan Hivert finished 7th in Saturday's tough 200km Classic Sud Ardèche. The Frenchman of the Belkin Pro Cycling Team wasn’t completely satisfied afterwards. 

“Jonathan was our man today,” said Sports Director Erik Dekker. “In the uphill sprint of a 20-man front group, he managed to secure the 7th spot and, although he suffered on the final climb, he had the idea that he could have finished higher up. He wasn’t satisfied and I feel for him. It was a super tough race, however. We had to tackle a serious amount of climbing. As a team we did well.” 

The Classic Sud Ardèche was Martijn Keizer’s first race for the Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM. The Dutchman enjoyed his debut to the fullest following a hectic week. 

“It all happened so fast," said Keizer. “I signed my contract on Tuesday and today I already rode my first race. It went okay. Unfortunately, I could not finish the race. I did 180 kilometres, but the boys gave me a warm welcome, and it was super nice to put on the Belkin shirt for the first time.” 
 

For Paul Martens, the Classic Sud Ardèche was his first race of the season as well. The German was on the sidelines longer than expected this winter after suffering a knee injury, yet he was able to complete 150 kilometres. 

“It went better than expected with my knee," stated a relieved Martens. “The parcours was very difficult. After all the training hours I missed this winter I did not expect this. This race was important for my intensity. I hope to continue this way.”