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Demi Vollering wins the queen stage of the Giro d'Italia Women but faces disappointment after failing to break away from her main rival, Anna van der Breggen.
This unexpected twist highlights the impact of nature on race strategies, as Vollering's plans were drastically altered by a sudden course change due to avalanche risk.
As the favorites climbed the Colle dell Finestre, Vollering initiated an aggressive strategy, hoping to distance herself from the competition. However, race officials announced a shortened route, leaving just 6km to the finish instead of the anticipated 35km. Vollering expressed her frustration, stating, "It was really strange that it changed so fast... that changed a lot from what we had planned."
Despite her strategic adjustment, she couldn't shake Van der Breggen, Antonia Niedermaier, or Isabella Holmgren. Vollering ultimately secured the stage win, marking her second victory of the race. Yet, she admits mixed feelings linger, saying, "I’m really happy to take this stage, but at the same time, I’m also a little bit disappointed." With one day left and a non-mountain stage ahead, her chances to overtake Van der Breggen for the pink jersey seem slim.
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