The women’s classification was significantly reshuffled. Starting the day with a 2’49” lead, Lola Bakker struggled from the very first kilometres and could not find her rhythm. By the finish, she had lost 17’12” to Syd Schulz, who now tops the general classification with a 14’23” margin.
Linda Van Vliet completed the podium both for the stage and overall, although over 45 minutes down on the new leader.
“I went out strong to test the waters and see if Lola would respond,” explained Schulz. “I was alone almost right away, and didn’t panic. I thought she’d come back, but maybe the heat got to her. The scenery at Appenninica is amazing, and I really loved the final descent today — it was so much fun.”
