‘I had the legs to win today’ – Canadian Sarah Van Dam disappointed with Tour Down Under fifth place on Visma-Lease a Bike debut

On the final stage to Campbelltown, Van Dam reacted to an attack by UAE riders Mavi García and Paula Blasi before she was forced to drop back. The second time up the climb, she led the chase behind the leading quartet, and she’d eventually lead the group home to take fifth place, 12 seconds down.

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In the end, fifth overall at 25 seconds down on Rüegg came as a strong start to Van Dam’s time with Visma.

“I had the legs to win today, so I was a bit disappointed afterwards. I gave everything I had,” Van Dam said after the final stage.

“On top of that, I was supported brilliantly by my teammates. They kept me well-positioned at the front and made sure I stayed cool and hydrated on this hot day. I started the first ascent of Corkscrew Road in a good position. After the increase in pace, I was at the front with the UAE Team ADQ duo. They played the team tactics well, which unfortunately meant I had to let them go.

“On the final climb, I was in the chasing group, but after all the efforts, I lacked the power to follow the decisive acceleration. It was the first time I was in a position where I could fight for overall victory.

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“Looking back on the past three days, I can only be proud of how we raced as a team. We learned a lot here and will take this experience into the next races.”