Today the Giro d'Italia moved from Ireland back to Itay after three rainy days on the Emerald Isle. Three Belkin riders used the opportunity to take stock of the situation, with team captain Wilco Kelderman confirming that he is okay after yesterday's two crashes.

The Giro d’Italia arrived in its homeland today after three days in on the island of Ireland. On Monday, the teams flew from Dublin to Bari to prepare for the remainder of the race. 

“The flight was a very smooth one,” said Rick Flens immediately upon arrival at the hotel. “We didn’t have to worry about our luggage. The suitcases were picked up in Dublin and sent directly to the hotel in Bari. That was tip-top. 

“I look forward to racing in Italy. Together with Belgium, this is the country that embraces the sport the most. People breathe cycling here. Although, I have to say that it was fantastic in Ireland too. They say it’s is a green county, but I think I’ve seen more pink over the last few days!” 

Martijn Keizer was one of the engines in the team time trial on Friday. During the first three days on the island, he saw that the team is working well together. 

“Everyone is on the same line,” said Keizer. “We witnessed that during the TTT, but also during the third stage. Wilco went down that day and immediately everyone lined up for him. We all know that Steven and Wilco are our leaders. The whole team will work for them. 

“If the opportunity arises, I hope to attack one day, though. In 2012, I finished eighth in one stage after being in the break seven times, I think. It truly gave me a powerful feeling, to know that the peloton is not able to catch you.” 

‘The Emperor of the Attack’ already talked about how Kelderman crashed in sunday’s stage three. He hit the tarmac twice during the day. The captain of the Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM suffered scrapes, but already said he is OK. 

“Everything is fine. The worst part was that I had to change bikes twice,” Kelderman said. 

“Despite the help from the boys, that cost me quite some energy. The first time I went down was after a Italian hit me in a corner. The second time, another rider bumped into me after we suddenly had to brake for a roundabout. I don’t expect that my crashes will hinder me during the coming days, though.”