A bunch sprint decided about the outcome of the second stage of the Tour of Spain between ’s Hertogenbosch and Utrecht. Even though the breakaway was always within reach, nervousness caused several crashes in the final race hour.
Unfortunately Gerben Thijssen was involved in one of those crashes. He hit the deck in the final 500 meter and couldn’t defend his chances in the sprint. The sprinter of team Intermarché-Wanty-Gobert Matériaux could cross the line, just like the rest of the team.
« Just like in the team time trial yesterday I felt good in this second stage. And once more I could rely on excellent support of my teammates. In the final kilometer my lead out Boy van Poppel chose the right moment to move up towards the front on the right side, but at that moment a rider in front of us stopped his effort. We had to break hard, resulting into a crash. I have several wounds and a sore ankle. Further examinations in hospital will determine whether I can start tomorrow. I hope to receive a green light and a new chance to sprint, because I worked really hard to be in optimal condition at the start line! »
