For Wilco Kelderman and Belkin, stage 13 of the Giro d'Italia was a day of survival and they accomplished their mission when the Dutchman finished safely in the bunch. His teammates have been motivated by his strong performances and are ready to give it their all for the leader in the upcoming mountain stages.

Wilco Kelderman and the Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM did what they had to do today: stay upright and not lose time to the other GC contenders. The Dutchman concluded the 13th stage of the Giro d'Italia in 18th and maintained his fifth overall. Italian Marco Canola (Bardiana-CSF) surprised the sprint teams by staying clear until the line in Rivarolo Canavese with two other riders and winning the stage. 
 

Despite hail, there was not a cloud in the sky for Kelderman on Friday. “We got through the day as we wanted," said Sports Director Jan Boven.

“We received some very good information from our soigneurs who were on top of the last climb so we knew about the bad weather and we were able to hand out raincoats to Martijn Keizer in time. He took them to the others. It proves that we have a strong group and that there’s an amazing atmosphere. Today, I saw some solid teamwork.” 

Keizer takes a lot of satisfaction out of the work he does for Kelderman.

“Wilco’s good results are motivating for everybody. It’s nice that he always manages to finish off our work.” 
 

Tomorrow’s stage 14 promises to be a real test for the GC riders. After climbs of third, first and second category, the finish is up a first category col. 

"Tomorrow is going to be one of the toughest days of the race, though we’ll see some special things in the final week, as well,” said Boven. “We can build on today’s good teamwork. It gives us a lot of confidence.” 

Keizer sees opportunities to help Kelderman tomorrow.

“It’s a stage with four climbs, one very early and it would be ideal if one of us goes with the early escape so that Wilco can count on some help later in the race.”