Unstoppable Ostiz claims victory in Women U19’s race

Spanish champion Paula Ostiz completely dominated the Women U19’s race, sealing the win with a decisive attack on the Wolvenberg. Megan Arens (NED) finished second, while Jente Koops (NED) secured third place with a clever late move. 

The Women U19’s peloton rolled out at 1:30 PM for a race just shy of 74 kilometers. Early attacks didn’t lead to much, as small gaps were quickly closed down by the bunch. The first real move came with 25 kilometers to go, when France’s Poirier launched a solo attack. She entered the final lap alone, but her effort ended at the foot of the Achterberg climb. 

On the upper slopes of that climb, Spanish champion Ostiz accelerated. Only Dutch rider Arens managed to follow her wheel. The two descended together, trailed by a group of ten riders who had a small lead over the main peloton. 

The cooperation at the front was excellent, and by the time they reached the Varent climb, the leading duo had stretched their advantage to a full minute over the bunch, which had merged with the chasers. The race-winning move was clearly up front. 

Ostiz then attacked again on the Wolvenberg, dropping Arens and setting off solo for the final kilometers. A few riders in the peloton tried to mount a chase, but none were successful. 

Ostiz — who claimed the European time trial title in the U19 category last September — powered to a solo victory. Arens held off the chasers to take a well-deserved second place. Jente Koops launched an intelligent attack with 3 km to go and secured third place on the podium.