Lisa Bone Fights to Stay in the Mix on Demanding Queen Stage
The Queen Stage of the Garden Route Giro proved decisive in the elite women’s race, with significant shifts in the general classification after a demanding day in the mountains.
Mariëlle Trouwborst delivered a dominant solo performance to take the stage win, building a commanding lead over the field despite suffering a late puncture. Vera Looser chased strongly behind to secure second place on the day, while the battle for the remaining positions reshaped the overall standings.
For Lisa Bone, the stage was a true test of resilience. Sitting second overall going into Stage 5, she came under pressure early as the pace surged on the climbs. Distanced from the front group, Bone found herself in no-man’s-land but refused to let the race slip away.
Digging deep, and with the support of Cherise Willeit, she managed her effort intelligently to limit losses and bring her race back under control. Her determination ensured she remained competitive in the general classification heading into the final stage.
Stage 5 Results – Women
- Mariëlle Trouwborst
- Vera Looser (+0:34)
- Cherise Willeit (+5:49)
- Lisa Bone (+5:49)
- Catherine Kruger
Trouwborst’s victory sees her extend her overall lead significantly, while Looser moves into second place on GC. Bone now sits third overall, still within reach of the podium with one stage remaining.
With fatigue setting in across the field and a shorter final stage to come, the fight for the remaining podium positions is far from settled. For Bone, the objective is clear: recover, reset, and seize any opportunity that the final stage presents.
To follow the final day’s action, like the Garden Route Giro Facebook page and follow @gardenroutegiro on Instagram. Cycling fans can also tune in for daily highlights on the Dryland Event Management YouTube channel and read the daily news releases on their favourite cycling platform.
For more information, visit www.gardenroutegiro.co.za.