The latter had the best start after Van Empel had to go to the equipment post early. Van Empel, Clauzel and Van Alphen arrived at the Friezin. Clauzel was the first to drop out, then Bentveld and in the end it was a battle.
Candid world champion Fem van Empel (23): ‘People didn’t know that I had stopped enjoying the sport for a long time’
Just like in the Kiremko Nacht van Woerden, Van Empel left Van Alphen on the spot in the final phase. And thus achieved the fiftieth victory of her career, a record that now includes three world titles.
Van Empel has regained pleasure
“It’s great that I could win twice in my own country,” said the world champion. “I really wanted to ride these two Dutch races, because there are few races left besides the World Cup in Hoogerheide and the World Championships in Hulst. This is the basis for cross-country racing in the Netherlands, where I once started. It is now nice for the organization that I am here at the start in my rainbow jersey, so I can give something back to the sport.”
Van Empel had a different start than usual, drove less on the road and even took a long break. “I am happy that I have rediscovered the fun. And that is really back. I want to enjoy racing, the result is less important, but of course it is still nice to win.”