Greig Leach

Using the toughest section of gravel on the entire Strade Bianche Donne course, Annemiek Van Vleutin (Movistar) dug deep to drop the rest of the peloton in pursuit of another victory in the Rainbow Jersey. Though struggling, Cecilia Utopia Ludwig (FDJ-Suez) was able to hold onto the wheel of the world champion. The group was cheered on by hundreds of fans along the side of the road, each hoping to catch a glimpse of their woman doing well. By now, these ladies were just over a minute an a half behind the sole rider up the road.