THE Netherlands successfully defended the European team gold they won in Rotterdam four years ago, with a convincing victory over Germany and Britain in the grand prix B test.
The crack Dutch team fielding grade IV riders Demi Haerkens and Sanne Voets alongside the multi-garlanded grade V pair Frank Hosmar and Alphaville NOP, and grade Ill's Lotte Krijnsen - coasted to victory, with nearly six points to spare over Germany.
However, for much of the two-day competition, Germany appeared to hold the advantage. The grade IV riders competed last, which meant the Dutch couldn't post the required three results until the fifth and final class. After Frank headed the grade V, Demi and Sanne wrapped up the win by finishing first and second
