Norbert Riberolle didn’t feel great during warm-up despite her win, Cant still in serious pain after crash

"I’m super happy," the Crelan-Corendon winner said during the flash interview. "Originally, I wasn’t planning to race today, but during the training camp, I talked with the coach and the team. They said, ‘This might be the perfect chance to win.’"

The Belgian’s start was anything but smooth. "I didn’t feel good during the warm-up, and my legs felt heavy during the reconnaissance," she explained. "I always say I have a lot of respect for Cant. She was my idol when I was younger. Mentally, I didn’t know what to do. In the end, I didn’t let her win because I couldn’t wait. This was my chance for a victory too."

Earlier this year, Norbert Riberolle also claimed a win at an Exact Cross. This latest victory provides a confidence boost. "This is great for morale and for the upcoming races."

During the flash interview, Cant was asked if she had cursed after finishing second. "Why would I curse? I had a pretty hard fall, so honestly, I’m just happy I made it to the finish line."

Her crash and a later mistake near the pit area proved crucial in deciding the race. "It was quite tricky near the pit with deep tracks, and I slipped out of one and hit a post. That wasn’t so bad, but then I fell onto my bike, and my handlebars hit my upper leg. I basically rode the rest of the race with one leg. I’m in a lot of pain. Honestly, I just want to get to the bus."

Despite the pain, the Belgian champion never considered quitting. "Quitting has never really been my thing. I gritted my teeth and tried to make the most of it. It’s hard to say if this will have any lasting effects. The adrenaline from the race will linger for a while, so I’m afraid the worst of the pain is yet to come."