{"id":40962,"title":"Travelogue: Cycling and racing in Flanders 2024","description":"What's it like watching cycle racing in Flanders Belgium? Rijden made a four night stop in the heartland of cycle racing to watch the professional Belgian Road Race Championships, take part in a Kermis and enjoy some lovely cycling in the Flemish Ardennes.","content":"

Flanders in June has everything for the keen cyclist so Captain Bob and I packed our bikes and sea chests for four fantastic days in cycling's heartland. <\/span><\/p>

We watched Lotte Kopecky and Arnaud De Lie triumph in their National Championships, participated in the LWU Belgian Championships and enjoyed glorious cycling.<\/span><\/p>

On the way, we met a spy, found out what really separates Flanders and Wallonia and discovered the joys of the Schelde as well as making new friends.<\/span><\/p>

\"LotteLotte Kopecky was in a class of her own. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

I\u2019d had to forgo a trip to the Spring Classics this year so I was particularly looking forward to my third consecutive Belgian Road Race Championships. From the small group that had accompanied me the year before, only my cycling pal Captain Bob found that he was available.<\/p>

He's good company on these trips. Being a retired sea captain he has a treasure trove of nautical stories and the innate ability to navigate by the stars.<\/p>

\"visualABOUT RIJDEN<\/strong>: Rijden grew from a passion for Flemish-style cycle racing. We're a small UK independent that publishes a <\/em>free online cycling magazine<\/em><\/strong><\/a> and sustainable gifts for fans of cycling\u2019s classics and cyclocross. Read <\/em>more about Rijden<\/em><\/strong><\/a>.<\/em><\/p>

\"visualIn his youth, he was also an excellent rider maintaining his first category licence despite long spells at sea and only a turbo trainer in the bilge of his vessel for company.<\/p>

Semmerzake<\/h3>

We were staying in an Airbnb in the village of Semmerzake, just north of Gavere in Oost Vlaanderen, in the northern reaches of the Flemish Ardennes. If the name Gavere seems familiar it\u2019s probably because it hosts a round of the UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup.
\"Cycling<\/u><\/a><\/p>

I'd chosen Semmerzake as it's roughly equidistant between the location of Sunday\u2019s Belgian Championships and where I hoped we'd race on Saturday.<\/p>

\"WhyWhy we were here. The Belgian National Road Race Championships. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

Semmerzake boasts a church, a bar and a restaurant. The latter was unpretentious and perfectly acceptable with a good choice of beers including the 12 per cent Martha Brown Eyes.<\/p>

Our outbound trip from Rijden\u2019s HQ via the M23, M25 and Eurotunnel couldn't have been easier and once we'd settled into our home for the next few days we looked forward to our cycling adventures.<\/p>

Day one - Obliterated on the Lippenhovestraat<\/h2>

The day dawned sunny and bright and as we sipped our coffee the only sounds we could hear were the chiming of the church bells and the occasional late rising cockerel. The automatic lawnmower popped its head up and silently trundled amongst the dewy grass.<\/p>

\"Subscribe<\/u><\/a><\/p>

It made its meandering way like a drunk stumbling home but had no impact on the lawn whatsoever. Satisfied that it had completed its task for the day it slumped back into the same quiet slumber that had taken hold of the village on this beautiful Thursday morning.<\/p>

Sint-Lievens-Houtem<\/h3>

We pedalled off in an Easterly direction towards Sint-Lievens-Houtem where the Belgian Championships were due to start. Unlike the previous two editions, this year\u2019s Championships had different start and finish towns. The finish at Zottegem lies just six kilometres South of Sint-Lievens-Houtem but it would take winner Arnaud De Lie 222 kilometres and nearly five hours to get there.<\/p>

Having reached Sint-Lievens-Houtem, I pressed go on my Garmin to follow the official route of the Belgisch Kamioenschap Elite Op de Weg 2024 - the Elite Belgian Road Race Championship 2024. After a mere six kilometres, we found ourselves back at the start again. I suppose if you\u2019ve paid to bring the race to your town you want to see it at least twice.<\/p>

\"CaptainCaptain Bob rides the cobbles of the Paddedstraat. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

For a while, we trundled through industrial estates and on rather dull traffic-laden roads but as we drew closer to the twenty-two-kilometre finishing circuit and further within the Flemish Ardennes it became more rural and lumpy.<\/p>

Paddestraat<\/h3>

It was not long before we were bouncing on the cobbles of the Paddestraat. According to the Paddestraat\u2019s description at Cycling in Flanders<\/strong><\/a>, it became a national monument in 1995. National monument or not, we were grateful to reach the smooth tarmac again after two kilometres.<\/p>

We passed the train station in Zottegem and found ourselves confused in the middle of town. A stop to scratch our heads, check the map and tap the Garmin firmly, and we were off again. Fortunately, we were able to spot some more course directions and were back on track.<\/p>

\"QuintenQuinten Hermans and Victor Campenaerts were the heroes of the men's Belgian Championships. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

\u201cthey really do sweep the roads in Flanders for cycle races\u201d<\/strong><\/p>

Passing through fields of docile cows lined with pollarded trees we caught up with a road sweeper that was out to ensure the lanes of Flanders were in perfect condition for the weekend\u2019s Championships. Yes, they really do sweep the roads in Flanders for cycle races. We were starting to enjoy ourselves as the tight narrow lanes twisted left and right, up and down.<\/p>

Lippenhovestraat<\/h3>

The route took in the odd deviation, such as around the back of a church, solely to take in some extra cobbles but on the whole the road surfaces were good. Then we hit the Lippenhovestraat. Or more precisely, it hit us.<\/p>

It\u2019s only a kilometre of cobbles but they disproportionately sap the speed and strength out of your legs. There\u2019s not a good or bad line, just a horrible one. At about half-distance, I heard the rattle of Captain Bob as he drew alongside me. He shot past with an energetic pace as if he\u2019d been chased by a pack of angry pirates.<\/p>

Pride kicked in and I put my back into a manful pursuit. It was only as he drew inexorably further away that I realised that it was an Alpecin-Deceuninck professional out for a pre-race recce. He glided where we bounced and was rapidly out of sight. I slowed to catch my breath.<\/p>

\"MyMy travelling companion Captain Bob considers his first race in Belgium. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

Soon we were back in Zottegem and sitting outside a bakery where we were able to enjoy the afternoon sun, our refreshments and a regular parade of professionals passing by.<\/p>

Schelde<\/h3>

Refreshed by the vivifying warmth and some strong coffee we were back on our saddles again, due East towards the Schelde. The river Schelde is an important arterial transportation route that bisects Belgium in two.<\/p>

\"visualREAD MORE<\/strong>: The Schelde was the scene of the bloodless but strangely forgotten \u2018Kettle War\u2019 of 1784. You can <\/em>read about the Schelde\u2019s role in the Kettle War in Jana Dobbelaere\u2019s description of her favourite ride in the Flemish Ardennes.<\/em><\/strong><\/a><\/p>

\"RideOur reason for searching out the Schelde is that it has a lovely cycle path that would take us due North back to Gavere. By now my legs were feeling the effect of all those cobbles and little hills and the thought of an easy flat ride sounded perfect.<\/p>

Sadly, the wind was strengthening and it wasn\u2019t the breeze I was hoping for. Still, we didn\u2019t get burnt off by any professionals as our goal drew closer and it was a pleasure to enjoy the tranquillity of the river.<\/p>

Distance covered: 134 kilometres<\/p>

Day two - Easy ride to Gent<\/h2>

I'd persuaded Captain Bob that it would be fun to ride a kermis on Saturday. The alternative was a sportive that we\u2019d ridden the year before or another made-up route.<\/p>

Landerlijke Wieler Unie<\/h3>

But the weather was not looking at all promising for Saturday so I suggested riding the LWU Belgian Championships. It might be hard but at least we'd only get wet for an hour and a half at the most. If riding the Belgian Championships as an Englishman abroad sounds either odd or impressive, it's really neither.<\/p>

\"TheThe course at Knesselare runs next to the Gent-Brugge Canal. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

The LWU, or Landerlijke Wieler Unie to give its full title, is one of the many independent cycling federations within Belgium. Each federation runs its own National Championships and some even have World Championships.<\/p>

Anyone can ride as long as they pay the entry fee but only Belgian nationals who are members of the LWU and have raced a minimum number of rounds in their series can become the Champion.<\/p>

Knowing from past experience that finding the race HQ can be tricky, I suggested a gentle ride out would be in order. Under leaden skies and with the occasional drip of rain we set off from Semmerzake.<\/p>

Destination Knesselare<\/h3>

We headed off in a Northeast direction towards Brugge but sadly we weren't planning a visit to one of Europe\u2019s cultural jewels on this occasion. Our destination was the village of Knesselare on the banks of the Gent-Brugge Canal.<\/p>

It transpired that the race HQ was easy to find. The Caf\u00e9 de Reisduif (pronounced raze-duff) sits overlooking the canal and is an obvious landmark as there's little else there. We pulled up and found a small group of mountain bikers sipping beers.<\/p>

Being true ascetics we spurned the Devil's buttermilk and stuck to coffee. Having checked the maps we realised that the race course ran right past the Caf\u00e9 and along the bank of the canal.<\/p>

But in which direction? With a tone of certainty, I pronounced that it would run clockwise to take advantage of the right-hand turns. With a cheerful \u201ctot ziens, see you tomorrow\u201d, we were off.<\/p>

The seven-kilometre lap was rapidly completed. Not because we were trying particularly hard but because it was probably the flattest seven kilometres we\u2019d ever ridden. The major climb formed by a pair of speed bumps.<\/p>

Gent-Brugge Canal<\/h3>

Our pre-race reconnoitre was complete and having ridden a lap, as it transpired, in the wrong direction we had to decide where to go next. As we were alongside the Gent-Brugge canal, I reasoned that if we headed East we\u2019d surely end up in the middle of Gent.<\/p>

\"It'sIt's about to get very wet in Knesselare as Captain Bob prepares to race. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

If we\u2019d headed West we'd have found ourselves in the medieval splendour of Brugge and from there it would be possible to navigate to the ports of Zeebrugge and Oostende.<\/p>

It's no wonder that during the Middle Ages, Brugge became one of the world's most important commercial centres where spices, wool, wine and other wonders were traded. The former Genoese Trade Commission now houses the Frietmuseum. Yes, that's the museum of the chip.<\/p>

With thoughts of frites, we set off towards Gent along a cycle path that hugged the edge of the canal. Under a darkening sky, the countryside gave way to factories and industrialisation as we drew closer to the city's centre.<\/p>

Adoration of the Mystic Lamb<\/h3>

In the distance, we could see the tower of the St Bavo Cathedral which houses one of the world's most famous works of art, the Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by the Van Eyck brothers which was completed in 1432.<\/p>

\"TheThe centre of Gent in Belgium. Image: Unsplash<\/em><\/p>

We needed inspiration as the rain, light at first, grew ever heavier. Our enlightenment was dependent on something more prosaic - food and warmth. Finally, our prayers were answered and we reached our nirvana, the centre of Gent.<\/p>

As well as fine art, Gent is home to a rich tapestry of restaurants. We weren't fussy by this stage and despite the numerous tourists, as we bounced over wet cobbles we found an empty table at House of Waffles overlooking the River Leie, right in the heart of the city centre.<\/p>

Waffle wars<\/h3>

The menu is relatively easy to grasp. For the main course, it's something savoury with waffles and for dessert, it\u2019s waffles with something sweet. I learnt from the menu that Wallonie waffles are rectangular and Flemish are round. Wars have been fought over less and it\u2019s no wonder they have two separate regional parliaments.<\/p>

As we tore ravenously into our waffles with something savoury, Captain Bob struck up a conversation with an elderly couple on the next table. He's always doing that.<\/p>

\"FlemishFlemish waffles are round. Image: Unsplash<\/em><\/p>

I would have thought a lifetime of travelling the world would have taught him never to make eye contact with strangers. Or maybe by now, he's worked out who's safe to talk to and who isn't. The couple explained that they were on holiday from New Zealand and had returned to rekindle their affection for Belgium, having been stationed there for seven years.<\/p>

Their fondness for Belgium was obvious and despite many considering New Zealand a bucket list destination they didn't seem that enamoured. Our attempts to establish what he'd been doing in Belgium were brushed aside with the art of an accomplished diplomat. We did establish he\u2019d had a diplomatic passport which as far as I'm concerned just says spy.<\/p>

\u201clike cycling motorways\u201d<\/strong><\/p>

With our adieus said and our sweet waffle course complete (you can only take asceticism so far) we were back on the banks of the River Leie headed for the intersection with the Schelde. They really are like cycling motorways.<\/p>

The previous day's headwind along the Schelde had completed a 180 turn and once again we plugged along, passing chugging barges as we went. We rode the last small climb up to the church and we were back at base, damp but content.<\/p>

Distance covered: 90 kilometres<\/p>

Day two part B - Ride for Joren<\/h2>

We washed the grime of the day away from our bikes and bodies but still had one more cycling rendezvous of the day left. We were off to Wevelgem to watch a criterium in honour of the late Joren Bouquet.<\/p>

The twenty-six-year-old former professional had died in his sleep in 2019 whilst on holiday. The ex-V\u00e9randas Willems rider had been diagnosed earlier that year with heart problems and had had to give up racing.<\/p>

This was the fourth edition of a race in his honour, held in his home town of Wevelgem. All but two of the field were Elite 2 amateurs or as they used to be called, elite zonder contract (elites without a contract).<\/p>

Minute\u2019s silence<\/h3>

It might be a race for amateurs but it was professionally organised, with primes on most laps, a long list of sponsors and a generous prize list. Fittingly, prior to the start a minute\u2019s silence was held and then the bells of the nearby church rang out before the riders set off on a neutralised lap.<\/p>

And then bang, they were off. It was fast and the bunch was strung out in one long line. Riders started to drift out the back and gaps kept opening as the pace was kept high at the front.<\/p>

\"JonasJonas Goemen wins for Tarteletto-Isorex. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

Turning around I realised that very few people were watching the race. Most were sitting, drinking, eating and chatting, seemingly oblivious to the hectic action passing almost in front of their noses. The excitable commentator kept them informed but they just seemed to be enjoying the ambience and 70s pop hits.<\/p>

After several attempts to break clear had been thwarted, the final selection was made. As the bell for the final lap rang, the non-spectating spectators rushed to the barriers.<\/p>

Tarteletto-Isorex victorious<\/h3>

In the sprint for the line, Tarteletto-Isorex professional Jonas Goemen edged out Kevin Lava. Fellow Tarteletto-Isorex teammate Alex Vandenbulcke led home the rest at three seconds. Both Tarteletto-Isorex riders were on the start line for the elite Belgian Championships the following Sunday. Neither would finish.<\/p>

Later that night I suffered a terrible cramp which is rare for me and a terrible pain in my stomach. I put it down to the non-alcoholic beer rather than the slightly dodgy-looking food that I'd consumed whilst watching the criterium. Prospects didn't look good for the following day when I'd be up against top masters' opposition.<\/p>

Day three - LWU Belgian Championships<\/h2>

Another gorgeous sunlit day in Flanders was our prospect as we set off in the direction of Knesselare. Larry the lawnmower had done his duty and now it was our turn to do ours.<\/p>

With the words of Horatio Nelson ringing in our ears, we prepared to defend our national pride against all comers.<\/p>

Dagvergunning<\/h3>

We eagerly handed over our warm currency and fifteen euros later we were signed on and issued with day licences (dagvergunning) and race numbers (rugnummer).<\/p>

The Caf\u00e9 Reisduf thronged with riders, riders\u2019 mums, wives and a multitude of assorted supporters. From a quiet backwater the day before, this small corner of Flanders had been transformed into the focus of international cycling.<\/p>

Well, maybe not but it certainly was busy and the Caf\u00e9 was conducting a roaring trade. We sought solitude as we prepared ourselves for the challenge ahead. Captain Bob, being a few years older than myself, was in the 63+ group. LWU age groups are different from the UK\u2019s, for example, 45 to 54, 55 to 62 and over 63.<\/p>

Captain Bob versus Belgium<\/h3>

The women's race went first, followed by Captain Bob's race and finally a race for anyone over 19 who wasn\u2019t fit enough to ride in their age group. It soon became a muddle of riders with groups scattered all around the course. The commentator did his best to make sense of the whole thing.<\/p>

I'd pointed out to the Captain that of the three riders I knew from the Poperinge-based Meiboomspurters, only Patrick Watteny was eligible for the championship. His race went off like a bullet and had split even before they'd reached the first corner. With Patrick ensconced in the front group, his teammates were not going to chase.<\/p>

\"CaptainCaptain Bob edges out his rival in the sprint at the end of the LWU Belgian Championship. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

\u201cno one is your friend\u201d<\/strong><\/p>

Captain Bob tried to enlist support but he soon found, in his first race in Belgium, that the tactics of his rivals were baffling. He concluded afterwards that no one is your friend. Even the riders they caught from the women's race would elbow him out of the way.<\/p>

After a couple of laps, a deluge of rain had every spectator sprinting for cover. The Caf\u00e9, busy before, suddenly became the place to be in sleepy Knesselare. I was too slow and had to find shelter under the porch of a nearby house.<\/p>

What the occupants thought I don't know but I was too damp to ask. On the last lap, Captain Bob found that several of his competitors were bickering amongst themselves. He took the opportunity to sneak away with another and satisfyingly out-sprinted him for eighth place. Breathlessly, when asked how his first experience of racing in Belgium felt, he replied that it was fantastic but was glad it was over.<\/p>

Flemish kermis racing<\/h3>

And so it was my turn. A lightning-fast start had my legs aching almost immediately. For the first lap, I wondered if I might be dropped. But soon I grew in confidence and joined some of the attacks.<\/p>

\"BelgianBelgian cycling fans take it all very seriously. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

As Captain Bob had discovered, Flemish kermis racing is very unlike anything you'll encounter in Britain. Unless the right combination of riders are in a split they will just refuse to work.<\/p>

There are many more full-power attacks, followed by a lull, followed by another all-out burst. Fellow Briton Roy Chamberlain managed to gain a gap and I knew if I could bridge the yawning chasm we would work well together.<\/p>

I lunged out of the group and was most of the way across but a solitary Belgian was glued to my rear wheel. I motioned him to come through but there was an intractable lack of support.<\/p>

I turned and asked him in my politest minor public school English to offer up some effort. I'll never know what his reply really meant but I think it translated as something like, \u201cif it's alright with you, I'll just let you tow me to the finish and then out sprint you.\u201d I gave up and slunk back to the diminishing peloton.<\/p>

A lack of coordinated effort and the stop-start nature of the bunch enabled Roy to grow his lead considerably over the last lap. I felt sure he'd win as we were ambling with everyone, if not content, at least settled for second place.<\/p>

Then as we were all thinking about the upcoming sprint, the pace shot up. Riders were bouncing off one another as everyone tried to simultaneously grab some slipstream whilst moving up to the front. The speed was ferocious and Roy's lead melted. He was caught as the sprint started. Sixth place was my reward, plus of course five Euro for returning my race number.<\/p>

We might not have quite upheld a nation\u2019s honour but we didn't embarrass it either. With our own Belgian Championships complete, we were ready to watch the real thing.<\/p>

Distance covered: 39 kilometres<\/p>

Day four - BK Wielrennen 2024<\/h2>

Finally, the reason for our sojourn in Flanders arrived. As always in Flanders, another day of fine, dry weather beckoned. With the car loaded up with all our possessions, we said farewell to the soporific village of Semmerzake.<\/p>

Belgian Road Race Championships<\/h3>

The Belgian Road Race Championships are quite a different affair to the Spring Classics. Ignoring the obvious such as the better weather and the lack of riders from other nations, it\u2019s the fans that make the real difference.<\/p>

\"FansFans at the Belgian Championships tend to be more erudite. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

Unlike say the Ronde van Vlaanderen, which attracts a multi-national, multi-lingual crowd and draws in both the dedicated and occasional cycling fan, the Belgian Championships is a more niche affair. There might have been other Britons watching by the roadside but we didn\u2019t meet any. In fact, we didn\u2019t meet anyone from outside of Belgium.<\/p>

\u201cvery few inebriated young men\u201d<\/strong><\/p>

Many of the spectators we spoke to had a personal connection with a rider in the race, either a friend or relative or were part of a rider\u2019s fan club. It seems as if many more kids are watching and certainly very few inebriated young men. It\u2019s much less of a crush to find a space by the side of the road to watch. In all, it\u2019s a more relaxed and genteel experience.<\/p>

Team presentations<\/h3>

All of the riders are presented to the crowd as they sign on. It was the women\u2019s turn first. Those without a team are grouped by province for the presentation, thus the first two to wave at the crowd were the Vlaams Brabant riders, followed by those from Oost Vlaanderen, Limburg and Antwerpen.<\/p>

The women\u2019s race is a mixture of professionals, that is those with a contract, and club riders or amateurs. Of the 160 entrants, only about 45 are classified as professionals. The rest would be battling for the title of Club Champion. The men\u2019s race is exclusively for professionals. A separate club championship for men is held on a different day.<\/p>

Lotte Kopecky<\/h3>

As each rider was presented to the growing crowd their popularity was reflected in polite clapping and the odd cheer. For a few well-known names such as former cyclocross World Champion Sanne Cant, this was more enthusiastic.<\/p>

\"YoungYoung fans are a feature of the Belgian Championships. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

The clear favourite was reigning National Champion Lotte Kopecky. Resplendent in her rainbow stripes the World Champion looked calm but confident. And why wouldn\u2019t she be? Everyone expected her to win but that had been the case at Middelkerke in 2022 when she\u2019d been outfoxed by Fenix-Deceuninck.<\/p>

Former cyclocross star Ellen van Loy stopped by to say hello. She\u2019s no longer active in the field but still participates in a few road races in between coaching and mentoring young girls at cyclocross.<\/p>

Ellen explained to us that she was not as fit as she would have hoped and that the climbs were steeper than she preferred. She hoped for a good result for her team\u2019s Jesse Vandenbulcke. The former elite Belgian Champion and World Tour rider had taken a step back in the sport to spend more time with her young family and was eligible for the Club Championship.<\/p>

\"EllenEllen van Loy is still a role model. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

As they waited for the flag to drop, many of the female competitors knew their chances of reaching the finish were limited. But their family would almost certainly be there to encourage them and who wouldn\u2019t want to say they\u2019d raced against Lotte Kopecky?<\/p>

Then they were off to complete one large loop, followed by three laps of the finishing circuit. As soon as they had departed it was the men\u2019s opportunity to wave to the crowd which had grown considerably since we first arrived.<\/p>

Belgium\u2019s cycling stars<\/h3>

Young fans lined the route to the podium, waving their hands, autograph books and team jerseys. The more enterprising had signs requesting attention from their superstar heroes. All the greats of Belgian road racing were there. Jasper Philipsen, Wout van Aert, Jasper Stuyven and Quinten Hermans were amongst the hopefuls for victory.<\/p>

Even the top Belgian cyclocross talent was on display. Michael Vanthourenthout, Eli Iserbyt and Toon Aerts were all on the start line. Not that they or anyone was expecting them to pose a serious threat to the established road stars. For the \u2018Mudmen\u2019 it was all about sponsor exposure and pre-season training.<\/p>

\"DriesDries de Bondt chats to Wout van Aert on the way to the team presentations. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

One name was missing, however. One dossard lay forlornly and sadly forgotten. Bib number one would remain when all others had departed. Reigning National Champion Remco Evenepoel had a slight cold and had decided to rest up at home. For young Remco supporters, it was a bitter disappointment.<\/p>

Destination Lippenhovestraat<\/h3>

We set off in a race of our own. Our aim was to drive across country, avoiding the closed roads, as quickly as possible to the Lippenhovestraat or at least somewhere near it. We wanted to find a spot away from the circuit where we could safely leave the car and contents but would allow a speedy exit towards Calais.<\/p>

We weren\u2019t alone in our ambition and as we carefully traversed the narrow lanes we led a convoy of like-minded car drivers. Our progress was halted by a temporary road closure to allow the women\u2019s race to pass. We hopped out to watch. The field was already splintered into small groups.<\/p>

Finally, a long way behind the front runners came one of the amateur provincial riders, alone and enduring a forlorn and pointless pursuit. Released by the attendant policeman we continued our journey, parked up and unloaded our bikes.<\/p>

\"Lidl-TrekLidl-Trek had a strong team including Jasper Stuyven and Thibau Nys. Image: Rijden.<\/em><\/p>

Quite quickly, we found our perfect spot to watch the women\u2019s three laps and the men\u2019s five. An enterprising householder had transformed his driveway into a bar complete with a mobile toilet and giant screen to watch the live TV action. If there\u2019s a cycling heaven this is probably it.<\/p>

We had no sooner made ourselves comfortable on the grassy bank opposite when the lead cars came charging through. The Rodina safety car announced the lead riders\u2019 impending arrival each lap with a blaring \u201cRrrrrrodinaaaarrrrr, Rrrrrrodinaaaarrrrr\u201d. I can only imagine the driver has earplugs otherwise they\u2019d be driven to insanity by its constant repetition.<\/p>

Lotte Kopecky destroys the field<\/h3>

Lotte Kopecky bounded through, making the cobbles look easy. In her wake, AG Insurance-Soudal rider Justine Ghekiere led the chase. Her face contorted with the effort. Not far behind were Sanne Cant, Lidl-Trek\u2019s Fleur-Moors and Ellen van Loy\u2019s De Ceeuster-Acrog teammate Jesse Vandenbulcke.<\/p>

\"AGAG Insurance-Soudal\u2019s Justine Ghekiere tries to close the gap. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

The rest were already at some distance. The only question was whether the three chasers would be able to latch on to the flying Kopecky. Dribs and drabs of riders came through. Many long after the road was officially open again and they were mixed in with walking and cycling spectators.<\/p>

Ellen van Loy was alone towards the back and she appeared to glance enviously as she passed the improvised bar. Meeting friends and family some of the riders who were out of contention just stopped with at least one staying until the finish of the men\u2019s race.<\/p>

The pattern of the race was set with Kopecky constantly stretching the elastic until with over a lap to go it snapped. Fleur Moors gamely chased alone but it was inevitable that she would drop back to the clutches of Cant, Ghekerie and Vandenbulcke.<\/p>

Ahead Kopecky serenely drew further and further away. By the end, she was three and a half minutes clear. Having collected her medal and jersey, she promptly rode the 60-kilometres home.<\/p>

\"DroppedDropped riders find themselves riding alongside tourists. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

Tired by her attempts to stay with Kopecky, Fleur Moors was dropped and that left Cant and Ghekerie in a slow sprint up the drag to the finish. In comparison to Kopecky, they looked exhausted. A fast-charging Marion Norbert Riberolle led home a group of five with Vandenbulcke hanging on for sixth place and the title of Club Champion.<\/p>

The Campenaerts and Hermans show<\/h3>

We didn\u2019t have long to grab another drink, eat our picnic and refresh ourselves before it was the men\u2019s turn. If the women's race had looked painful, the men's was brutal. A large group had broken away early on and they still had a substantial advantage as they crested the Lippenhovestraat for the first time.<\/p>

A fellow enthusiast whom I'd been chatting to opined that with powerful riders like Campenaerts and Hermans, they could go the distance. I wasn't so sure but they were certainly forcing a concerted chase from those behind.<\/p>

\"TheThe pursuit behind Campenaerts and Hermans. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

As they passed through with one more passage of the Lippenhovestraat and twenty-seven kilometres left to race only Campenaerts and Hermans were left. My newly made friend was still clinging to the hope they'd hang on to the end.<\/p>

The captain and I calculated they'd be caught as they reached the Lippenhovestraat for the last time. From our vantage point, we could see the frenetic and increasingly frantic hunting pack struggling to close the gap. Domestiques were rapidly burnt and tossed aside.<\/p>

Sprint decides the BK Wielrennen 2024<\/h3>

It was an impressive performance by the Lotto Dstny and Alpecin-Deceuninck pairing. But as we\u2019d predicted when they hit the cobbles for the last time and five kilometres short of the finish, they were caught.<\/p>

A bunch sprint of the two dozen riders still in contention was inevitable. Arnaud De Lie led out and Jasper Philipsen just couldn't raise his game to come past. The Belgian tricolour was destined for the shoulders of the Lotto Dstny professional.<\/p>

It had been an immensely enjoyable few days in Flanders. All we needed to do now was head to Calais, cruise through the Eurotunnel terminal and be home for a late supper.<\/p>

\"DespiteDespite being dropped from the front group, Jesse Vandenbulcke was crowned Club Champion. Image: Rijden<\/em><\/p>

Why I thought the scenario would play out I don't know. Every time I've come back from Belgium there's been a delay due to UK passport control.<\/p>

Work to rule?<\/h3>

The French seem to get rid of us as quickly as possible. The British on the other hand, appear to be operating a friendly work to rule.<\/p>

As we handed over our passports a cheerful official asked us if we'd had a lovely holiday with general chit-chat about the weather, cycling and anything else to bump the length of time to complete what seems a stunningly simple task.<\/p>

Naturally, we missed our train and by the time we emerged in Kent, it was dark. But we weren't going to worry. We had the stars to steer us home.<\/p>

\"Read<\/a><\/p>

Where we stayed in Flanders<\/h2>

Eurotunnel<\/h3>

We travelled over and back from the UK via the Eurotunnel. We caught a midday train on Wednesday and returned on Sunday evening. Generally, mid week trains run on time with few delays but Sunday evenings are always busy even during term time.<\/p>

If you have the flexibility I'd recommend coming back on Monday. Eurotunnel only charges per vehicle so you can split the cost by travelling with friends.<\/p>

Airbnb<\/h3>

I'm a late adoptee of Airbnb relying in the past on booking.com<\/a>, now I tend to look at both. Flanders has a great selection of hotels, B&Bs and self-catering accommodation and they're used to cyclists.<\/p>

We stayed in a two bedroom self-contained dwelling within the garden of the owners\u2019 house. Clean, peaceful with excellent wifi it ticks all my boxes. There's a fully equipped kitchen and a sitting room with a double sofa bed downstairs. Up top is the main bedroom with a separate bathroom and washing machine.<\/p>

Secure bike storage is onsite and free parking is available in the street outside. The young owners speak perfect English and very responsive to questions and requests.<\/p>

We paid \u00a3320 for four nights to stay at Dorpstraat<\/a> in Semmerzake.<\/p>

17 July 2024, Tim Costello<\/em>
<\/strong><\/p>

\"Rijden<\/strong><\/p>

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\"Subscribe<\/u><\/a><\/p>","urlTitle":"travelogue-cycling-and-racing-in-flanders-2024","url":"\/blog\/travelogue-cycling-and-racing-in-flanders-2024\/","editListUrl":"\/my-blogs","editUrl":"\/my-blogs\/edit\/travelogue-cycling-and-racing-in-flanders-2024\/","fullUrl":"https:\/\/rijden.uk\/blog\/travelogue-cycling-and-racing-in-flanders-2024\/","featured":false,"published":true,"showOnSitemap":true,"hidden":false,"visibility":null,"createdAt":1720711953,"updatedAt":1721395280,"publishedAt":1721395279,"lastReadAt":null,"division":{"id":61205,"name":"Rijden_2"},"tags":[{"id":1216,"code":"road-racing","name":"RoadRacing","url":"\/blog\/tagged\/road-racing\/"},{"id":1874,"code":"guides","name":"Guides","url":"\/blog\/tagged\/guides\/"}],"metaImage":{"original":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/dqrr93eec7kvhr5nwo0psjggjwwgmnfoukvgrt4ndbqulg3b.jpeg","thumbnail":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/dqrr93eec7kvhr5nwo0psjggjwwgmnfoukvgrt4ndbqulg3b.jpeg.jpg?w=1140&h=855","banner":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/dqrr93eec7kvhr5nwo0psjggjwwgmnfoukvgrt4ndbqulg3b.jpeg.jpg?w=1920&h=1440"},"metaTitle":"Travelogue: Cycling and spectating in Flanders","metaDescription":"Flanders in June has everything for the keen cyclist. We popped over to watch the Belgian Road Championships and enjoyed some great cycling.","keyPhraseCampaignId":50052,"series":[],"similarReads":[{"id":9561,"title":"Guide to Belgian beer","url":"\/blog\/beer-guide-part-2\/","urlTitle":"beer-guide-part-2","division":61205,"description":"Here at Rijden, we love Belgian beer. There's not much better than settling down to watch one of cycling's Spring classics or a top cyclocross race with a Belgian beer in hand. In this article, we describe the different types of Belgian beer.","published":true,"metaImage":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/utk2mdpa3ebapxomtdmcqm9xze7zpfjpxgzd2ysbsverygri.jpeg.jpg?w=1140&h=855","banner":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/utk2mdpa3ebapxomtdmcqm9xze7zpfjpxgzd2ysbsverygri.jpeg.jpg?w=1920&h=1440"},"hidden":0},{"id":10141,"title":"Soviet Invasion","url":"\/blog\/goodwood-1982\/","urlTitle":"goodwood-1982","division":61205,"description":"The first of three stories about the 1982 World Cycling Championships which was held at Goodwood. Sleepy Sussex was the stage for a minor invasion of Soviet cyclists and their KGB minders.","published":true,"metaImage":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/ysyhin4y6wh2tspjf8niotiyhghaolmac7ucoddcx2tlpzmt.jpeg.jpg?w=1140&h=855","banner":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/ysyhin4y6wh2tspjf8niotiyhghaolmac7ucoddcx2tlpzmt.jpeg.jpg?w=1920&h=1440"},"hidden":0},{"id":10158,"title":"Goodwood 1982 - Amateur titles","url":"\/blog\/goodwood-1982-part-two\/","urlTitle":"goodwood-1982-part-two","division":61205,"description":"The UCI Cycling World Championships were held in England in 1982, with the road races at Goodwood in West Sussex. In the second part, we report on a rare British victory and socialist love.","published":true,"metaImage":{"thumbnail":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/skobdoxdohlydrehwbak2vqm7psto0d1hfgryg4dee8axtqn.jpeg.jpg?w=1140&h=855","banner":"https:\/\/images.podos.io\/skobdoxdohlydrehwbak2vqm7psto0d1hfgryg4dee8axtqn.jpeg.jpg?w=1920&h=1440"},"hidden":0}],"labels":[]}