Wilco Kelderman headed into the Monte Zoncolan stage with the goal of moving ahead of Cadel Evans in the overall standings. Despite getting dropped by the best riders, he accomplished his mission and is very pleased with the outcome of this first grand tour as team leader.

Wilco Kelderman moved up to seventh place overall in today’s gruelling 20th stage of the Giro d’Italia. On the mighty Monte Zoncolan, the Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM rider finished 55 seconds ahead of BMC’s Cadel Evans, enough to pass the Australian in the general classification. 

“I’m exhausted, but I also feel very satisfied,” said Kelderman. “I gave everything I had for that seventh place. Early on in the climb, I saw that Evans wasn’t feeling great. That was a boost for my confidence.” 
 

Michael Rogers of Tinkoff-Saxo won the stage. With one stage to go, Nairo Quintana is wearing the pink jersey tightly around his shoulders. 

“I tried to follow the top riders as long as possible,” said Kelderman. “When I felt that the pace became a little too high for me, I decided to ride my own tempo. I didn’t have time to look back for Evans, as it was way too steep.” 

Jan Boven was very proud of Kelderman’s performance afterwards. The Sports Director also complimented the team’s effort.

“Maarten Tjallingii was part of an early break today. Because too many teams and riders were in danger of losing their spots, the attackers never managed to take a big lead. Maarten was able to do some work for Wilco right after the others dropped him off at the foot of the Zoncolan. I’m very proud of the team.” 

The last stage of the Giro d' Italia leads the pack from Gemona del Friuli to Trieste. After 172 relatively easy kilometres, they finish on a local circuit. A bunch kick will likely conclude the 97th Giro d’Italia.