Sep Vanmarcke made a strong start to Tour du Poitou Charentes on Tuesday. The Belgian classic specialist of Team LottoNL-Jumbo fought for victory in the first stage until very late, but had to settle for third place.

The 27-year old Vanmarcke managed to escape the peloton in the final ten kilometres together with eleven others. Eventually, he finished behind two Frenchmen. Arnaud Gerard (Bretagne) attacked the break in the final kilometre and held on. He finished one second ahead of fellow Maxime Daniel (AG2R La Mondiale). Vanmarcke was not far behind.

“We rode attentively today,” Sports Director Frans Maassen said. “The final started early. It was already raining attacks with fifty kilometres to go. Our men were always well represented. Twan Castelijns managed to take a good lead with Alaphilippe and Gène, but they were caught. Shortly after, the final group with Sep formed. I thought Sep was going to make it happen, but Gerard managed to escape.”

“Gerard attacked in the final kilometre, the rest of us looked at each other, and he was able to stay ahead,” Vanmarcke said. “No one wanted to sacrifice himself for the others, but that’s racing. In the sprint, I made a mistake by sitting too far behind. That’s disappointing because I felt there was more in it for me today. I’m glad I’m back at a level where I can fight for victories again. My rest period served me well. I feel fresh again.”

Maassen expects to see a scenario similar to today’s on Wednesday.

“But with more tail-wind. I reckon it’s going to be a fast day. We must remain attentive. Today, a break was successful, so it can go both ways tomorrow.”