We had a strong start to the Lotto Belgium Tour today under wet conditions in Chimay, Belgium. Alice Barnes stormed around the 4.4 kilometre prologue course to finish in fifth place, just six seconds behind winner Ellen van Dijk (TFS). Barnes’ teammates Hannah Ludwig and Ella Harris finished ninth and tenth respectively making it three riders within the top ten for CANYON//SRAM Racing.

“I am pretty happy with my ride. Obviously it was painful but I did my all-time best five minute power today, so am pleased with my form coming into the race,” said Alice.

“It was basically go hard from the start and hold on until the finish. The weather didn’t matter too much as there was only one fast corner. I didn’t use my brakes at all on the course,” added Alice.

While the British road and individual time trial national champion set a fast time around the course, teammates Hannah and Ella also put in strong performances.

“I think I surprised everyone with that result!” said Ella who admits she prefers long climbing stage over a prologue.

Before the tour start, Alice tipped tomorrow’s stage one as her best chance to target a stage win. The flat 102km stage from Blankenberge to Brugge starts at 13:00CEST. Follow the action on Twitter with #LottoBelgiumTour. Live broadcasts on GCN+, Eurosport Player and on the race website start at 14:30CEST.

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