Young Swedish rider Emilia Fahlin secured the 107th victory for the women’s HTC Highroad team this year when she raced to a final stage win in the Tour Cycliste Féminin International de l'Ardèche on Saturday.
The victory on the 73 kilometre final leg was her fourth of the race and further highlights the 21 year old’s current superb form. She beat team-mate Amanda Miller to the line, with the latter taking the best young rider’s jersey in the event. .
Both were part of a 15 rider break with went clear with 30 kilometres remaining, as was their team-mate Ally Stacher and race leader Emma Pooley (Garmin-Cervélo)
Directeur sportif Ronny Lauke explained how things played out. “Emilia attacked with five kilometres to go,” he said. “Emma Pooley chased her down before counter attacking."
"By one kilometre to go, Pooley and Emilia got caught before Emilia and Miller made their move. Amanda took second today, and the best young rider's jersey.”
Pooley ended the race a full two minutes 20 seconds clear of Ashleigh Moolman (Mix 2) and a further ahead of Christelle Ferrier Bruneau. Her form is building well towards the world championship road race.