It was an explosion of infectious joy and an emotional moment. This Sunday lunchtime, at the finish line of the Grand Prix International d'Isbergues - Pas de Calais for women, a young woman had time to stand up on her bike, clench her fists and flash a broad smile. Valentine Fortin had just crossed the line in the lead, ahead of the four runners accompanying her. A short distance away, Victoire Berteau, wearing her blue-white-red jersey, was also raising her arms.
Already her 4th victory of the season!
For the Cofidis team, it was the best possible scenario and a fitting reward. After all, Valentine Fortin was in both of the day's breakaways: the large one at the start, which was caught, and the six-rider breakaway that went all the way. This 2nd breakaway also included Victoire Berteau. Victoire and Valentine played their cards right in the final stretch, overcoming their rivals to score a fine victory.
Valentine Fortin was impressive, and for good reason: this was her 4th victory of the season. She had already shone on two occasions on the Bretagne Ladies Tour before winning last weekend at À travers les hauts de France. For her, these victories show that the team "has grown a lot this season". And that we can continue to count on them every time they take part in a race.
VALENTINE,
HER HOT REACTION
Valentine Fortin: "I'm super happy, there's no other feeling. It's so great to raise my arms, especially for the 4th time this season! At the start, there was a big breakaway that was caught. The real breakaway came at km 93, and we came out with six girls, including Victoire and myself. In the final stretch, I told her that if she had the chance, she should go for it. She gave it a go, and then I did too... Our performances show that we have a strong team and that we've grown a lot this season. It augurs very well for the future.