Sunny^[1] and not quite enough wind to break things up.

Flat roads through cornfields^[2], the Friulian Alps looming to the north.

Straight, simple and a speedy finishing circuit^[3] .

We had a simple mission today; stay safe, save energy for tomorrow. The day began fast^[4], with the leading GC teams unwilling to let anything go – and it took around half the race before a break finally went away. We battled hard to get into the move but ultimately missed out. The break was reeled in on the final finishing circuit by the main sprint teams. With the help of Poido, Clara was able to stay safe deep into the final, crossing the line in the peloton with the other general classification riders. Now, we refocus and get ready for tomorrow – the queen stage of the race. Mission accomplished.^[6]

  Heidi and Katie fight hard to make the break.

  Team rides as a unit in the peloton, with Poido playing 'bodyguard' for Clara.

  Clara safely negotiates the crashes in the final.