Annemiek van Vleuten returned to racing yesterday in the Boels Rental Ladies Tour a little under four weeks after she was hit by a car in training. She's made excellent recovery that surprised even the medical staff. Here's what she said after completing the first stage in the front group.

"I was surprised how good it went. I had good legs, power also. [Sports Director] Dirk Baldinger told me to race in the back for safety but during the race I was already thinking of going in front, where to attack etc. But I stayed in the back for safety. I'm really excited about such a good positive day with the team." 

Click here to see photos from the opening day of racing where Carmen Small netted a top ten for the team.