Wilco Kelderman used today's Rund um den Finanzplatz as a good final hit-out for the Giro d'Italia where he will be one of two Belkin leaders and he proved that he is ready for his big target when he animated the German race. In the end, Belkin left the race empty-handed after Lars Boom could only manage 13th in the final sprint.

Wilco Kelderman completed his final race before the Giro d’Italia in the Rund um den Finanzplatz Eschborn-Frankfurt today. He had stated that he wanted to attack in a pre-race interview and lived up to his word. He rode with part of a breakaway for a long time, but a bunch sprint ended up deciding the day’s winner. Alexander Kristoff (Katusha) took the victory and Lars Boom, in 13th, was the best Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM rider.

“That was just everything Lars had today,” said Sports Director Jan Boven. “But I think it’s been a good day for everyone, both for the boys who started up again after the classics and for those who will ride the Giro.”

Kelderman especially had a good and exciting day, Boven said.

“Wilco attacked after about 30 kilometres and eight others followed. They were reeled in before the finish line, but for him, it was a good training effort between his altitude camp and the Giro.”

The roads around Frankfurt were very slippery because of a rain storm. Fortunately, there were no serious casualties for the Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM. Tom Leezer, who rode his first race after the classic campaign, crashed, but didn’t suffer major injuries.

“Everything is still intact”, he said. “I had to get used to racing again after a short break. When the race exploded, it was a little shock as it’s something completely different than an easy morning ride. However, I had a good feeling from today’s race.”