Fem van Empel outlasts Lucinda Brand to win X2O Trofee Baal

Dutch Fem Van Empel celebrates as she crosses the finish line to win the women's elite race of the 'GP Sven Nys' cyclocross cycling event on Monday 01 January 2024 in Baal, stage 4/8 in the X2O Badkamers 'Trofee Veldrijden' competition.
BELGA PHOTO JASPER JACOBS (Photo by JASPER JACOBS / BELGA MAG / Belga via AFP)
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Fem van Empel (Visma-Lease A Bike) emerged victorious at the X2O Trofee Baal after a gripping duel with Lucinda Brand (Trek Baloise Lions), while 18-year-old Ava Holmgren (Lidl-Trek) underscored her potential with a remarkable podium finish.

“For sure, it’s always nice to start the new year with a victory, especially with the new sponsor,” Van Empel said.

Barry Ryan
Head of Features

Barry Ryan is Head of Features at Cyclingnews. He has covered professional cycling since 2010, reporting from the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia and events from Argentina to Japan. His writing has appeared in The Independent, Procycling and Cycling Plus. He is the author of The Ascent: Sean Kelly, Stephen Roche and the Rise of Irish Cycling’s Golden Generation, published by Gill Books.

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