Bauke Mollema fourth in 15th stage: ‘It’s going in the right direction, I couldn’t have done this a week ago’

On the final climb, Bauke Mollema had to let go of his strongest fellow escapees. Day winner Brandon McNulty, Ben Healy and the young Italian Marco Frigo were simply too strong for the Dutchman. And yet afterwards the good feeling prevailed with the leader of Trek-Segafredo. He feels that he is getting better and better.

“It is going in the right direction”, was his first reaction in front of Eurosport’s camera. “A week ago I couldn’t have done this, because then I just didn’t have the legs. I feel better, because I was already there yesterday. The legs were good in themselves, but those other guys are riding so fast on that climb. I was also just too far behind to come back.”

Mollema eventually got together with Einer Rubio, who he managed to put on top in the sprint. “I am happy that things are going in the right direction and this gives me confidence for the third week. Usually I have to have it in a grand tour of the second week, but if I continue this line, I will certainly try it a few more times.”