A stage win and a solid runner-up spot in the ITT put the Belgian in control of the general classification with one day to go.
Vic De Smet got off to a strong start at the 47th edition of STER Van Zuid Limburg, finishing third on the opening stage and racking up bonus seconds that could prove crucial when the race comes to a conclusion on Monday.
From there, the 16-year-old – who one week ago won the Borlo ITT – went on to capture the victory in Lanaken, on the second day, which turned out to be a perfect one for Soudal Quick-Step U19, as he was joined in the top three by teammates Jakub Tesarik and Kuurne-Brussel-Kuurne champion Simon Defrance.
The second stage was a really hectic one, due to the many crashes and turns on the course.
“In the final five kilometers, Gal attacked and rode strongly, being caught only in the final kilometer. That allowed us to be at the front in a perfect position. Simon did a great lead-out with me in his wheel, while Jakub was just behind me. I was able to win and the three of us swept the podium after a beautiful team effort. It’s a real pleasure to race with these guys”, Vic said after his second win of the year.
One day later, in the evening individual time trial, the Belgian impressed again and finished runner-up, a result that elevated him to the top of the overall standings with one stage to go: “I did a good ITT and I’m happy to lead the race now. We’ll try to defend this on Monday. Having Simon in third place on the GC gives us options, so we’ll try to do our best on the undulating roads to Mopertingen.”
