The second day of the UCI Junior Track Cycling World Championships turned into a celebration for Italy – but not without fierce battles and emotional moments on all sides.

The day began with gold for the Italian men’s team pursuit, who defeated Great Britain in the final. In the women’s event, however, the tables turned: Great Britain came out on top in a nail-biting race against the Italian squad, denying them a double victory.

But Italy wasn’t done yet. In the elimination race, Chantal Pegolo gave her country another reason to sing the national anthem loud and proud. 🥇

Choi dedicates Keirin win to late friend

In the keirin final, Korea’s Taeho Choi claimed a powerful and emotional victory.

“I was emotional today because a close friend of mine passed away exactly one year ago. I want to dedicate this win to him. I prepared hard for this tournament and managed to ride the perfect final. Everyone wants to launch their sprint at the same time, and I found the ideal moment to take the lead and hold it all the way to the finish. I hope to fight for the title again in the sprint.”

French Scratch Win – So Close for Apeldoorn’s Own

The scratch race was thrilling to the very end, with France’s Nathan Margaux claiming the rainbow jersey. But all eyes in Omnisport were on local hero Quint Segboer, who fought hard for a podium finish on his home track.

Alongside Moritz Mauss (GER) and Jacopo Vendramin (ITA), Segboer managed to escape the peloton. But in the final sprint for bronze, Vendramin had just a little more left in the tank, pushing Segboer to 4th place.

“When it came down to the sprint for third, the Italian was just a bit stronger. Of course I hoped for a medal, but before the race I would’ve signed up for a top-five finish at my very first big championship — and to do that here in Apeldoorn means a lot.”

More gold for Italy in the women's elimination race 🥇

The women's elimination race wrapped up the day with yet antoher gold for Italy, as Chantal Pegolo outlasted Mathilde Cramer (DEN) and Milana Ushakova (UKR)

👀 What’s on for day 3?

Friday’s program brings more high-speed action with the junior men’s sprint tournament, as well as the points race and individual pursuit. For the junior women, the sprint continues — and the omnium is on the schedule.

💥 Expect speed, battles, emotion — and plenty of #RaceYourDreams moments.

🎟️ Want to join us in Apeldoorn? Check the program and get your tickets or watch the livestream at the buttons below