Yet, even in the prelude to the stage, hurdles materialized in the neutral section. Not one, not two, but three of our riders grappled with mechanical issues, including Matteo himself. With calm resolve, they all rejoined the peloton before the official start, thanks to swift bike changes facilitated by our mechanic Edgar Coso.

The stage unfolded like a Chopin sonata, tugging at our heartstrings. The initial 30 kilometers were a devoted quest to restore Matteo Moschetti, alongside the Polish duo of Kamil Malecki and Szymon Sajnok, to their first race bikes. This mission was accomplished just in time for the impending crosswind sectors.

Just as our racing pulses were quieting, disaster struck on a crucial cobbled stretch with both Matteo and Szymon falling victim to untimely punctures. DS Piotr Wadecki, behind the wheel of race car 1, skilfully navigated the race convoy like a pinball wizard, weaving through other team cars and cyclists dealing with their own unfortunate punctures. Providing support within the race became a race in itself, a heart-pounding pursuit that demanded nerves of steel.

Chaos ensued as the race radio announced that the crosswinds had shattered the peloton into fragments. However, Moschetti displayed unwavering composure. Three bike changes and two punctures later, he persistently fought his way back to the main bunch. Eating into his reserves, generously showering the Polish countryside with precious watts.

“What is happening today?!” – Wadecki thought out loud, echoing the shocked angst of everyone in the race car.

Eventually, the wind died down and a concerted effort from various teams brought the groups back together and the projected bunch sprint in Opole was back on the cards. A three rider breakaway rode the front but the narrow gap of one minuted spelled a cloak of certainty that the trio was doomed. Yet they pushed forward, taking turns towards a palpable fate.

Carl Fredrik Hagen put in a diligent effort at the front of the peloton, keeping the break in check for over 50 kilometers. Taking the wind exacts its toll, a challenge sometimes more daunting than scaling double-gradient climbs. Used to shining on the mountainous terrain, Hagen morphed into a rouleur for the day.

With 25 kilometers to the finish line, the seconds between the breakaway and the peloton dwindled to a mere 20. The game of cat and mouse entered its final act. Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team, a silvery presence in the galloping bunch, surged forward with renewed energy, as the last breakaway survivor was caught.

As the peloton organized into color-coded blocks, various teams assembled their troops at the frontline. Ineos, Jayco Alula, Human Powered Health secured premium real estate, while our team adopted a more conservative position, keeping the powder dry for the crucial moments ahead.