First Podium for Justine Gegu

Mayenne rider Justine Gegu claimed the first podium of her professional career this Wednesday. At the finish of the Région Pays de la Loire Tour in Les Sables d’Olonne, the 26-year-old rider sprinted to an impressive second place in a bunch finish. Her teammate Fiona Mangan secured fifth place.

On this sunny day, all the ingredients were in place for Mayenne Monbana My Pie to shine on the roads of the Pays de la Loire. Around fifty supporters, along with representatives of our main partners, came out to cheer on the French ProTeam. In a lively atmosphere, a united squad delivered in the final, with Justine Gegu and Fiona Mangan both sprinting at the front of the peloton to take second and fifth place respectively on the line.

Justine Gegu, 2nd : "It was an important day for the team. We had a bus full of supporters, and seeing our faces on big posters along the route made it even more special. The whole team was really committed to delivering for everyone who came to support us. This podium means a lot to me, especially after a difficult start to the season in Belgium, so it’s also a bit of a relief. We wanted to enjoy ourselves today, and we definitely did. In the final, I just switched off and rode on instinct — I couldn’t afford to be afraid. It was nervous, but I managed to stay well positioned. I still can’t quite believe this is my first podium as a pro. It’s the result of a great team effort, and hopefully the win will come soon."

Damien Pommereau, Sports Director : "The race was quite controlled, with a breakaway of three riders that was caught in the final. It was an important day, with team partners present and a bus of 50 supporters as well. I hadn’t designated a leader in the pre-race briefing — the idea was to position Justine and Fiona as well as possible for the final. Both were capable of sprinting, and they each did so on their own. The team worked well, and in the end we placed two riders in the top five. We followed the right wheels, and the favorite won. It’s a very good day for us, especially with our partners and supporters there. On top of that, Justine was almost racing at home. Next up is Paris-Roubaix on Sunday — but that will be a different challenge."

Results :

2 - Justine Gegu

5 - Fiona Mangan

66 - Alice Coutinho

72 - Francesca Hall

77 - Léa Rondel

Photo credit : Illusion&réalisme