Thibaut Nice shines in the yellow jersey at the Tour of Balois Belgium but ‘died ten times’ in the first stage: ‘The throat is completely closed’

“I think I have died ten times today. The first heat caused a feeling of oppression,” says 19-year-old Nez. “That shouldn’t be an excuse, because it was so warm for everyone. I’ve heard a lot of guys complain. It was as if my throat was constantly being pressed in the final. I had a really good feeling in my leg, despite the fact that during the first two clips on Berg Ten Houte I kept stumbling. The first time I was stopped by Florian Vermeersch who I think kicked his chain. The driveway then I strapped with my transmission into the fence and stopped again. I always had to chase and that of course cost strength. Then I tried to survive Until the last time Berg Ten Hute. After that I rode a strong enemy, so I can be satisfied with my first stage.”

There may be a sprint on Thursday. The trial date has been set for Friday.

“I don’t think I’m going to be in this sprint. There are already race valves in the peloton here. I think I’d prefer to focus on the arrangement. I also had some serious time on test bike time. Yes, especially on a job this race stage. Don’t expect me to be In the top ten, but I really want to measure myself against time. And this yellow jersey is a target now. I want to keep it for as long as possible.”

Mama Isabel also hopes Thibaut stays in yellow for as long as possible. “Yellow looks good on you. My mom is proud,” she posted on Instagram.