Nooijen animates second stage of Setmana Ciclista Valenciana with long attack

# Nooijen’s Brave Attack Highlights Second Stage of Setmana Ciclista Valenciana

In the thrilling second stage of the Setmana Ciclista Valenciana, the peloton was met with an array of categorized climbs, setting the stage for strategic gameplay. Dutch cyclist Lieke Nooijen made headlines by launching an audacious early attack to secure a spot in the breakaway.

With the peloton allowing her to slip away, Nooijen seized the opportunity to clinch the maximum points for the mountain classification. As the race progressed and with just forty kilometers remaining, she was joined by two other riders who had also broken free from the peloton. The trio collaborated effectively, maintaining a considerable lead over the chasing pack. Unfortunately, their efforts came to an end in the last two kilometers, where they were caught just before the final sprint.

In a nail-biting conclusion, Cat Ferguson of the Movistar Team emerged victorious, crossing the finish line ahead of the other riders.

Reflecting on her day, Nooijen commented, “It was a beautiful day. I wanted to attack and see how far I could get. Going so early wasn’t quite the plan, but I felt that this was the moment. No one came with me, so I tried to ride hard and controlled.” She added, “Two girls joined me on the descent after the last climb. It was nice that I didn’t have to ride alone in the final stretch… Nevertheless, this gives me a lot of confidence for the coming days and the rest of the spring.”

Though she secured points leading towards the polka dot jersey, Nooijen made it clear that her main focus was on her teammate. “The polka dot jersey is a nice bonus, but not the main goal. The most important thing is to keep Viktória in the white jersey. Tomorrow will be a super tough day, but we’re going to do everything we can to keep her as high as possible in the rankings.” With her mindset firmly set on supporting her team, Nooijen appears poised to face the challenges that lie ahead.

### Stage Results
1. **Cat Ferguson (Movistar Team)** – 3:04:15
2. **Letizia Paternoster (Liv AlUla Jayco)** – +00:00:00
3. **Letizia Borghesi (AG Insurance – Soudal Team)** – +00:00:00
4. **Lieke Nooijen (Team Visma | Lease a Bike)** – +00:00:00 (Finishing 42nd)

As the competition continues, stay tuned for further updates from the Setmana Ciclista Valenciana, where the pursuit of victory and jersey classifications heats up among the elite women’s cycling teams.