Lars van der Haar sharpened his form for the World Championships when he won today's race in Ruchpen, his fifth victory of the year. Vincent Baestaens and Jens Vandekinderen completed the podium.

A day before the World Cup in Hoogerheide Lars van der Haar was the main rider who dared to test his legs in Rucphen (Netherlands).

The former Dutch champion got some thorough training and earned the victory as a result. Vincent Baestaens and Jens Vandekinderen were happy with a place on the podium. The returning Dieter Vanthourenhout finished fourth in his first race after a long recovery from injury.

Tomorrow Van der Haar can make the double. If Kevin Pauwels fails to reach the finish in Hoogerheide and Van der Haar wins, the Dutchman will defend his overall win in the World Cup.

Result:

1. Lars van der Haar

2. Vincent Baestaens

3. Jens Vandekinderen

4. Dieter Vanthourenhout

5. Thijs Aerts
6. Thomas Joseph
7. Mariusz Gil
8. Aitor Hernandez