Femke Markus wins third stage

Femke Markus of SD Worx-Protime claimed victory in the third stage of the Eneco Tour Women on Friday. She launched a decisive attack 17 kilometers from the finish line and held off the chasing group to secure the win.

Lieke Nooijen retains leader's jersey

Lieke Nooijen of Visma-Lease a Bike finished in second place in the stage. Despite not winning, she retained the leader's jersey in the general classification, maintaining her position at the top of the standings.

Hilly course and multiple attacks

The third stage took place on a hilly course of 88 kilometers around Sittard and Watersley. The route featured multiple attacks in the second half of the race, adding to the competitive nature of the stage.

SD Worx-Protime pressures Visma | Lease a Bike

The SD Worx-Protime team attempted to pressure the Visma | Lease a Bike team during the stage. Their efforts reduced the leading group to less than 25 riders 20 kilometers from the finish line, increasing the intensity of the race.

Markus creates gap with team efforts

Despite attempts by the Visma | Lease a Bike and Picnic PostNL teams to catch her, Markus managed to create a gap 17 kilometers from the finish line. Nooijen's teammates helped her limit the damage, resulting in a five-second gap to Markus at the finish line.

Nooijen leads by 28 seconds

With two stages remaining in the Eneco Tour Women, Nooijen now holds a 28-second lead in the general classification. The race continues with the final two stages yet to be contested.