Photo Credit: DirectVelo / Freddy Guérin

After some strong teamwork and solid results in the opening stages, Team dsm-firmenich were able to round out the Tour Alsace by taking a brilliant final day stage win with debutant Frank van den Broek.

A day dominated by the long climb in the finale before a flatter run-in to the finish, Team dsm-firmenich were attentive and active from the start; monitoring the race for any dangerous breakaways. When the original move was caught, several counter attacks were attempted before the team managed to set up Van den Broek who made it into a group of 11. Riding smartly, the Development Team dsm-firmenich rider followed a split in the group before the ascent; where he showed his climbing prowess by remaining firm when the other GC contenders jumped across from the peloton. Over the top of the climb, Van den Broek pushed the pace once more and managed to force a split, drawing clear two other riders. Working well as a unit, they extended their gap over the chasers and it was clear they would fight for the win. Despite some probing attacks in the finale, Van den Broek held his nerve and controlled the other two riders well before leading out from the front. Not looking back, he kept his head down all the way to the line and could sit up to celebrate a brilliant first win in his debut race in Team dsm-firmenich colours. With the gaps at the finish, it also saw the team secure third place overall too - another fine reward for some great team racing.

Click here for quotes from Van den Broek and the coaching staff.