Liv AlUla Jayco Continental Team look back on a very successful Gracia Orlova as Briton Emma Jeffers claimed the team’s debut victory of the 2024 season.
During the five-day UCI 2.2 stage race in the Czech Republic, the young and motivated squad took no less than two stage wins with Jeffers, plus a third-place finish overall with World Team rider Urška Žigart, making it a breakthrough race for the new squad after months of hard work.
On the fifth and final 101.6km stage on Sunday, there were several breakaway attempts making it an aggressive stage, however all moves were unsuccessful. Liv AlUla Jayco controlled large parts of the race knowing that there were chances once again for stage four winner Jeffers in a possible bunch sprint. Moreover, the team wanted to keep hold of Žigart’s third place in the general classification and avoid any riders taking time.
As the young team assisted Jeffers into position the sprint finish, the 19-year-old displayed her great talent and speed, launching to a memorable second stage victory, two in a row, as the eager Continental Team succeeded in both of their objectives of taking stage victory and an overall podium placing.
Emma Jeffers (1st place on stage 4 & 5)
“The team was amazing again today. We had control of the race; all moves were covered. Unfortunately, in the last five kilometres there was a crash which involved Leila Gschwentner and Matilde Vitillo, but even that setback could not hold back our sprint train.
The lead-out was excellent. I was very keen to reward the excellent teamwork again. These victories are a huge boost for myself, but also for the team. After months of sowing, this is our first, well-deserved harvest.”
Gracia Orlova – Stage 5 Results:
1. Emma Jeffers – Liv AlUla Jayco
Gracia Orlova Final General Classification
1. Corrina Lechne
2. Mirre Knaven
3. Urška Žigart – Liv AlUla Jayco
