Two in the final top ten in Hungary: Badilatti 4th and Piccoli 10th
Israel Start-Up Nation conquered the Queen Stage of the Tour of Hungary in a royal way, with Matteo Badilatti finishing fourth on both the stage and in the overall GC, and James Piccoli tenth on the stage and in GC.
The final stage of the race ended atop an 18 km long climb up Gyongyos -Kekesteto. The small break group of the day had been caught, and on the climb, a selective group of riders formed, including our two. The group shed riders as it neared the top, but Matteo and James hung on in the final group of 15. Winner Attila Valter (CCC) broke from the group in the final kilometer to take the win, with our two riders making the way to the finish line in fine fashion.
“Our goals at the race were a top five placing in GC and a stage win. The latter just didn’t happen, but we are very happy with Matteo’s and James’ placings. They both showed they have fine form,” said Sport Director Dirk Demol.
“Just as important is that I saw the guys making process, learning a lot. And today all six of our riders finished. Rudy Barbier and Itamar Einhorn suffered on the climb, but they finished. And that is something to be proud of.”
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