With the outspoken favourites missing the U23 World Championships, Visconti is one of the many youngsters that hope they can take advantage of this. However, bookmakers are fully aware of the youngster's strenghts and while promising at times, Visconti lacks the real punch necessarcy to be in contention for the medals.
"I'll likely ride for my compatriots", said Visconti, with his famous father Raphael close to him, analyzing the training laps. "With the strong headwind, it's important to ride well as a team."
"I've developed and learned a lot this season. The U23 races were really a good experience for me. Maybe I'll join the elites full-time if I can find a contract", says Visconti, whose Lotto-Fidea contract is running out at the end of the year. However, Visconti wouldn't mind doing an additional year in the U23 ranks either. "It really depends on how the World Championships go and how I do during summer."
The young benelux squad which is rumoured may be a welcome sight for the young Belgian. "Yes, of course. That is an exciting project", replys Guido. "But first I have to show colours at the World Championships. It's a bit of a showcase for young riders like me. Valkenburg will be a great challenge."
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
Just off the site of the race course, a medium sized bunch of reporters are surrounding Sylvain Lipawsky, as the rain begins in a light drizzle, Francis Vague is just finishing up an interview a couple hundred metres away, the reporter slowly packing up or walking towards the Swiss contender, but there are still a couple journalists who want to grab an exclusive answer from Francis.
So, the world champs, what do you think of your chances here?
I've spent the last week away from racing and it's done a world of wonders for me, I was beginning to tire earlier, but now I'm feeling great. I love the course, nice and technical with some good climbing and, best of all no sand, so I'm definitely in with a shot, I think I can challenge for the win if I get a bit of luck.
Most other riders and the Scope think that you are more of an outside chance.
Yeah, Well I haven't been at my top since Christmas, but I've had a break, I performed well in Ostrava and I'm at the top of my abilities now and it can only benefit me to be underrated, so I'm happy, still, I think a few people are getting me confused with Pierre.
Besides yourself, who is your pick for the win?
Belgium, Verboven can attack and everyone has to mark him, while Cornelis and Vague can just follow and coming into the finish they'll have two cards to play, so they'll be tough to beat.
How about Matt, he has been racing well.
Yeah, this race can go any way, but in a break, he could definitely take it, would be funny to see his first pro win come in the world championships, but stranger things have happened.
On the topic of favourites, the race is really open, I can see it going to everybody, I just hope that I'm the lucky winner.
You've been talking about this race as a goal a while now, what does it mean to you?
It's the worlds, it means a lot to be out there, in front of the whole world, I'll give it my all, for the second most important race on the calendar, after my mess-up in my home-town.
Any news on transfers so far?
I don't know, I'm still open for a move, I'll take a look at the offers I get.
Aaaaand that time of the year every rider in the peloton was waiting for is about to come! I'm so excited to ride the first World Championship of my life, and looks like I'm among the favourites as well. I don't quite like when I'm among the favourites of a race, whatever that is. That's not a matter of pressure, it's just that I already know that the other favourites will watch out for me, that's the fuckin' problem... They won't even let me breathe, you know. In fact, Franny, Sylvain, Josiah and even The Scope have clearly stated that I will be one of the riders to watch out during the race and I guess that they're right, considering that I couldn't imagine a better profile for my characteristics: the winner will need to face the almighty Cauberg eight fuckin' times (8!) in about a hour of race: the most intensive hour of his life. But that's not all, here comes the best part: we'll get into a wood full of twist and turns: I was waiting for something like this all season long! I can't wait to ride my bike with my ears near the ground. I'm quite confident that neither Cock nor Franny can do it better than me, especially under the rain haha :)
My tactics? Attack, attack, attack. Perhaps an attack would do as well, why not? I won't hide myself, it wouldn't make sense at all! If I don't attack, even though I'm a favourite, I won't stand a chance. My sprint is worth as much as a penny when you want to buy a Ferrari. This time I'd prefer to get a last place because I've attacked to much and I've ran out of energies, rather than a 2nd or a 3rd place outsprinted by the usual Cocks or Vagues. At least I would know that I gave everything and the winner is the strongest rider.
I'm not very good at predicting stuff but I think that this will be contended by a very tight group of riders. I'm already counting Dries out. I don't believe he will be good enough on the tough slopes of the Cauberg, at least not as much as me, Lachy or Franny. But you never know. He's the most experienced rider in the peloton and among the best sprinters so if he can resist 'till the end he could still strike the right shot. Can't be said the same for Sylvain though, even if he excels in the bad weather. However, the guy I am worried the most (well, after Cock and Franny) is Lachy. He can do everything: he can ride his bike very well, and most of all, he's a fuckin' insane climber. He proved how much he is illegal at the Fuji Cross. In my opinion, that ride was one of the most inexplicable ones that I've ever attended to. If he is in THAT shape, then my hopes of victory (and the hopes of victory of everyone else) will fade away instantly. Let's not forget about the Icelandic guy with an impossible name to spell for a foreigner. If the weather forecasts are wrong, and it will be colder when it actually matters (which, well, I don't really hope happens) he has to be considered among the top riders again. But it won't happen of course! I'm the #1 favourite yay!
In the meanwhile, I'll have to cheer for Fabrizio Lorenzi, the next Mazzarelli. He looks to be a very interesting rider for the near future and he showed some absolutely dominating performances earlier this season. He doesn't suffer the cold badly as me, so does with the snow, because he grew up in an upper region of Italy, where these weather conditions are not rare at all. He is seemingly good in the sprints as well, which matters more than I thought and hoped in today's professional cyclocross...
But let's close this small parenthesis! I can't wait to start the race, to feel the pressure, to drop every single opponent that will dare to attack me, to win and to do it with my arms raised to the sky. Yes, to the sky. Because if I win, it will be all because of the weather. I'm in the best shape possible, I circled this weekend on my calendar and if I don't do well, well I will be the first person that will be disappointed about it. I don't want that this ends up just like Aosta, I can't allow it! No Lipawskys will deny the first true joy for me as a Cyclocross rider! But sadly I can't be sure of getting the highest spot on that shimmering podium, no one can be sure about it, and that includes you, my dear reader: but you can be sure of something else. No matter what, I will put on an unrepeatable show. Watch out.
Truly yours,
Matt.
Edited by matt17br on 27-03-2015 21:41
Well I'm back, bringing to you a World Championships Special. To get more detailed, I'm gonna focus on the Elite men's race, but that's not going to stop me giving y'all the biggest news on the U-23 yet...
The Prodigal Son Returns
Let's rewind two years on the dot. Francis Vague is wowing everybody, winning the Junior race on an icy by an inexplicable margin to everybody except his 15-year-old teammate, Milan Listerijn (23 seconds back). Now the bell might be ringing for you.
These two were Belgium's next big thing. Dries Cornelis seemed to just be over the peak of his career, and Belgium were searching pleadingly for a top rider to cheer for in years to come. They got two. These two were ridiculously talented and prodigious, with Vague being the better but also two years older. Then, after that, Listerijn never came back. He walked out on Belgian Cyclocross, and his license was taken away.
Whyever he did it, it was hastily covered up. But now he's back, having trained in New Zealand for two years. He is making his return racing for New Zealand in the under-23 race, despite being the age Vague was when he clinched the Junior title that season. He hasn't featured on any of the startlists, but I chatted to J7 sports executives who told me he has gained a New Zealand license to ride the U-23 World Championships. Watch. This. Space.
The Teams - Favorites
Belgium Favorites: Francis Vague, Dries Cornelis, Rudy Verboven Other riders: Rik van Fleming, Sven Welling Verdict: A good bet for gold, and almost guaranteed a medal. With a triple threat of leaders and the in-form Sven Welling they should have a safe squad. Rik van Fleming has no initiative and I'm afraid you can't wheelsuck Elliot Cook and co. up the Cauberg.
Italy Favorites: Matt Mazzarelli Other riders: Mario Guido, Ricardo Vieto Verdict: Mazzarelli is obviously a beast when the road rises this much, but does he have the X factor needed for a World title? Nobody has ever had their maiden pro victory be a World Championships, but nobody would count Mazzarelli out to do something like that, especially with the loyal help of Ricardo Vieto.
Great Britain Favorites: Elliot Cook, James Carlisle Other riders: Robert Wells, Andrew McLaughlin, Matt Claveren. Verdict: Cook is one of the top two favorites for victory here, and Carlisle can never be counted out, despite being out of sorts recently. Wells and McLaughlin have proved on occasion they can be very very good as well, win a race win and a runner-up between them.
Luxembourg Favorites: Gregory Bernard, Christian Shiltz Other riders: None Verdict: Luxembourg come here with co-leaders and nobody else, though don't call them that to their face. Both phenomenally talented for their age but their rivalry may come to the fore and cancel them out of the top 5. Expect at least one top 10 for Luxembourg.
Switzerland Favorites: Sylvain Lipawsky Other riders: Pierre Lipawsky Verdict: The technical and hilly course suits Sylvain to a tee, but despite little brother Pierre's goodwill he'll get dropped on the first ascent. But Sylvain is used to going solo by now, and he's exceptionally good at it.
New Zealand Favorites: Lachy Bauer, Josiah Bennett Other riders: Ronnie Hira Verdict: The Kiwi team comes here in support of Oceanic Champion Lachy Bauer, podium contender. Josiah Bennett is also an able puncher and can fight for a top 10. Despite being able to get over a hill the Cauberg is probably too hard for Hira. Definitely the dark horse team.
The Riders
I'm not going for the usual top 10, just overviewing all the main players.
Francis Vague
Strengths - The hilly and technical course will be music to Vague's ears as he hopes to continue his incredible form and earn the rainbow jersey.
Weaknesses - Cook in particular is just a slightly better climber th an him, so we're predicting overall he'll have to make up 9 seconds on descents and technical areas.
Analysis - The much-hyped youngster is primed to add a cake on top of another cake after a phenomenal first elite season.
Elliot Cook
Strengths - He's possibly the best climber here, and not a terrible descender or bike handler too.
Weaknesses - The curse of winning Suhar for one, and then there's that Vague might be slightly ahead of him technically.
Analysis - It would be very much like Cook to stick it to Belgium with a win under their noses. I think he'll take enough time on the Cauberg to seal it by a couple of seconds.
Matt Mazzarelli
Strengths - He's simply beastly uphill, and can definitely hold it with the best on his day. Plus he can ride the descent possibly second to only Cornelis. He's also very consistent.
Weaknesses - He possibly doesn't know his own strength, and his attacking ability may be countered by a headwind. But attack he must if he wants to wind lest it come down to his infamous sprint.
Analysis - Safe bet for a top five but can he take the medal positions? His greatest weaknesses could be his undoing if he finishes in a group. He could be the biggest enigma in the World Championships.
Lachy Bauer
Strengths - On his day maybe the best climber, plus he can handle himself technically, something he has really worked on. He's a great sprinter too.
Weaknesses - He peaks and then he drops. All the signs do point to him being ready for the big one here.
Analysis - If he's having a good day expect a medal. Otherwise he's still a good bet to finish around 3-7th all things depending.
Sylvain Lipawsky
Strengths - Technical and hill. His two specialties, and their both all there is to this race.
Weaknesses - Technical and hill. Unless it's his day he's simply not as good as, say, Vague.
Analysis - Definitely a good bet for a top 5, and he's really been targeting this race for the last month. But could the lack of racing be a curse and not a blessing?
Dries Cornelis
Strengths - He's experienced and the most technically able of any of the favorites.
Weaknesses - At least five people here can gap back up or get away from him on the Cauberg.
Analysis - He will do all he can to try and earn a medal on the descent, but he's simply not that much better than Lipawsky and co.
Rudy Verboven
Strengths - The best sprinter out of the favorites, and knows his way quickly over a hill.
Weaknesses - Just not as good as the other favorites, especially technically.
Analysis - Can stick with the outsiders and outsprint them for ~7th, but can't punch with the big boys.
James Carlisle
Strengths - Able puncher and sprinter, and can definitely hold his own over th e technical areas.
Weaknesses - Has seemed out of sorts recently and probably will wait for a sprint rather than playing to his strengths.
Analysis - On his day a safe bet for ~6th but looks out of sorts and will most likely just wait for a sprint.
Gregory Bernard
Strengths - Great puncher, and can attack away from the minor favorites group probably with ease.
Weaknesses - Lets the emotions get the better of him, which is a real shame.
Verdict - Talented for sure, but will his emotions hold him back from a respectable position?
Josiah Bennett
Strengths - Phenomenal puncher and technical player.
Weaknesses - Lieutenant role for Bauer.
Analysis - Could get as high as sixth if he doesn't have to do too much work for Bauer.
Christian Schiltz
Strengths - Cool, calm and collected, good sprinter and deceiving puncher
Weaknesses - Gregory Bernard. He'll most likely cause an accidental crash.
Analysis - Keep his handlebars and wheels away from Bernard and a top 10 seems on the cards.
Hafthor Eldfjasson
Strengths - A good technical rider and renowned fast starter.
Weaknesses - Maybe not good enough uphill.
Analysis - Probably not good enough uphill but start well enough and he could stay clear of 11th.
Tariq Faizullah
Strengths - Good technical rider and promising puncher.
Weaknesses - Maybe he isn't ready for this. Isn't a phenomenon of a sprinter either.
Analysis - Could come anywhere in the minor places, never discount this young man.
That's a wrap, hope you enjoyed it!
Edited by jandal7 on 27-03-2015 21:35
As he descends the Cauberg flawlessly towards the journalists awaiting him, Lachy Bauer grins and know his time is up. He's gotta get interviewed.
Lachy, how are you going to tackle tomorrow's race?
I'm going to have to mix it up really. I can't attack too much into the headwind, so I'm going to have to Ryan something new.
Well what do you make of Matt Mazzarelli's chances then?
Yeah if he resists the temptation he could really be a dark horse for gold. He's playing himself down but so is everyone.
On the subject of Matt, he's been tipping you as a favorite, especially if you get going. How do you feel there?
Yeah it could just be tactics, but me and Matti have generally got along and he's a nice guy. I'm more worried about how I'm actually going to do than how people think I'm going to do right now.
He also mentioned that Dries won't be up there later, what are your thoughts on Cornelis' chances?
Yeah as we know he'll try and win it on the technical sections, but overall I think the Cauberg is made for a guy like Cook, not Dries.
The Scope has been questioning your chances, did you read that article?
Yeah I did, and I think you've got the wrong end of the stick. Their version is the closest to the truth, and I'm telling you now that my mind is 100% ready for this, as are my legs.
And what did you make of Vague's interviews?
Yeah he's being very modest about himself, but I'm telling you now he's determined, he's confident and he's ready. I think he'll be up there and disappointed with any manner of lower placings, whatever he may tell you.
Oceania also have a very good chance in the U-23 race, with Peter Christensen and, so rumour has it, Milan Listerijn...
Yeah Peter showed in Perth he's ready for a race like this, it'd be great to see him medal here. And yes, I can confirm that Milan will be racing tomorrow with a New Zealand license. I think he's got a top chance of taking that jersey.
And The rumors of him going pro next year?
Why don't you ask him, he's just over there *points*
The journalists all turn towards the Cauberg, and when they realise it was a joke, Lachy Bauer has remounted and gone back into training.
Edited by jandal7 on 27-03-2015 19:21
The latest interview in Het Nieuwsblad wasn't too well received apparently at BKCP - Powerplus Headquarters. The traditional racing stable of some of Belgians finest talents is always quick to settle things in the press. To put their riders in the focus. To give them support when it matters.
Especially their team manager is keen to set some words straight. For his taste, Vague has been downplaying a role just a bit too much. "It's important to know who the Belgians have to cheer for. It's a BKCP - Powerplus rider. It's Francis who is in the spotlight, every other belgian rider needs to understand they are riding for him this time."
"We appreciate that Francis is a sportsman and understands [Cornelis] importance in Belgium and in Cyclo-Cross. Dries has a stunning record and is one of Belgium's greatest athlethes, but Francis is set to be Belgium's number one by the national coach and we expect the current World Champion to understand this and give 100% to help Francis win the rainbow jersey."
Despite the normal team hierarchy, BKCPs team manager is also quick to point out Vague's strengths and Dries' weaknesses. "Fact is, Vague has been up there in every damn hilly classic since Blaarmeesen. It's a perfect course for Francis, favoring his talents. If he is to beat the likes of Cook and Bauer, he needs the full team support. Not some half-determined effort by other riders. And Sven Welling won't be enough. The Belgian Team wins or loses at one unity, and in this way they have to ride for Francis." On another course, BKCP manager is begrudglingy pointing out, he'd urge Francis to do the same for Dries, but this may be the best chance Francis has, seeing as how the next World Championships might be a rather sandy affair. But also the argument that Dries is leading the UCI classification is hardly good enough for the manager: "Yes, Dries is leading UCI classification, but how many points would Francis have if he didn't get injured in Lisbon or skip most classics?!"
But exactly what does the manager understand under team support? "See, I'm not asking them to stop racing. They can still race for great results of themselves. I'd love to see Dries, Sven or Rudy take a medal as well. But when push comes to shovel, I think they all need to know that the right thing to do is to help Francis. I hope the public and they themselves understand this."
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
Sylvain begins to brake and hops off the bike, aware of all the reporters around him, who hurry over, sensing by his anger that something is off. An Italian reporter, sent more to interview Matt than anybody else is the first to reach him and begins in clumsy French
What is wrong about your bike Sylvain?
Sylvain begins to slowly spin the wheel, checking it for something.
Another flat, my third today. Last night, somebody dropped some glass around the course, just before the finishing straight, I'm not sure if they are placed on purpose or not, or wether it's just a broken bottle, we'll see.
Sylvain dislodges a small piece of glass, and moves onto the rear wheel.
You didn't finish the interview earlier Sylvain, can we ask you a few more questions?
Quickly.
A French reporter opens an obviously pre-prepared sheet.
What do you think about Bauer for this race?
He will be up there and I have to keep an eye on him, he's a good guy, but I don't know, aside from his amazing performance at FujiCross, he hasn't been that stunning, so I guess it just depends on the day. Still, it looks like everybody will be watching him.
A lot of people are rating him higher than you though.
Sylvain, finally stands up, satisfied that the glass is gone.
Well I guess I can only help me, if people want to ignore me then it'll be all the better for me, but I'm not really sure why he is rated higher than me, considering the fact, that in the nineteen races that we have both finished, I've been ahead of him in fourteen of them but we'll just have to see on the day.
The Weather is expected to not be great, how do you feel about that?
It'd be great to see a classic mud race, both for my chances, because in those conditions Matt and I are significantly ahead and for the fans, because, who doesn't like a muddy cyclo-cross. Som yeah, hopefully there is some real rain.
As mentioned earlier, the other favourites are playing you down, is there any reason for that?
I don't know, maybe they just don't think I have a chance, I just have to prove them wrong.
Can you give us a winner?
Me, but supposing I can't say myself, then I would say anybody from Belgium, I'm really liking Verboven's chances if they let him go.
Sylvain checks the time and realises he is late for something and begins to ride off, but forgets he has a puncture and has to stop and change his training wheels.
Who cares about the World Championships when you are EUROPEAN CHAMPION!? In CycloCross Europe is basically the World anyway, inspite of the globalisation this season might have brought.
Well actually, Hafthor Eldfjallsson would very much like to double up on the major championships, after a whirlwind couple of weeks with no chance to stop and take breath. Catapulted into a major Icelandic sporting figure, there have been plenty of non-racing commitments to keep Hafthor busy.
But the racing is what matters, so let's start with that day in Tabor. The Icy conditions certainly helped but as we had seen in Rasterhoff, Francis Vague is more than a match for the Scandinavian specialists. But not this day, with the explosivity usually reserved for the start returning for the ending too, as Hafthor outsprinted the Belgian for a career defining crown.
From there it was off to the 'home races' in Scandinavia and the perfect racing continued. No win in Torku, but a 2nd place as Hafthor returned the favour for Team Odfjell tactics earlier in the season as Hammarling took the win.
A reality check was necessary at the Hagfors Cross in Sweden, in the blistering 2° heat. Hafthor may be doing the European jersey proud, but there is some way to go before he can go head to head with Vague all race when the route is not set up ideally for him. Still, better to try and come 7th, than ride within yourself. Even ice is not enough to halt Vague, as the race in Lviv showed, but still 4th place was another top result chalked up.
A 6th in Ostrava showed that Top 10s can almost be taken for granted now - a big step from the start of the season. Sure, it was a return to anonymity on the sands of the Middle East, but that's not real Cyclo Cross!
So now it's the Worlds. The sand may have interrupted a run of 13 consecutive Top 10 finishes, after the training in Antarctica kick started Eldfjallson's season, but that record shows that Hafthor is a man to be reckoned with. No Team Odfjell advantage here, but can we really expect unity from the larger nations anyway? A lack of ice may lead some to underestimate Hafthor here, but they will do so at their peril.
Edited by SportingNonsense on 28-03-2015 00:22
Well it didn't take long for the arguments to start - Jimmy C led the rest of the Britty Brats in declaring that we should play a multi card strategy in order to disable the Belgian powerhouse team.
What utter crap!
Blighty only really have one card to play - that as unpaltible as it may be for the drone like morons is good ole Cookie monster. Yes I have played down my hopes for the worlds, I just think some guys are so pumped for this and I am just meh. Yes the atmosphere is electric, but I am just not as into the history as some of the crossers. However I have been out on the circuit and yes the hill is tough - certainly gets me in the mood for making the rest of the world grovel on my back wheel.
I tried to lead the team meeting but I could tell quickly Andy McLaughlin and Jimmy Carlisle had no interest in what I had to say. Have these idiots not even been watching the races? Jimmy C is knackered he will not even train with me, at least some of the others will go round the course with Cookie. He is trying to hide what we all know - he has no form at all.
My plans for the team is to just go rat-ta-tat at the Belgians - bar Vague I don't think they will like it up at them early I want Macca and Jimmy C to go all in, in the first few climbs. But we need to get out there and practice tempo - they are not interested they just want to hope for a miracle solo victory of their own.
I have been impressed though with some of the other guys that I have seen in the paddock. Mazzerelli for example looks really focussed and his Italian team really look like they are behind him. Lachy is obvious the kingpin for his band of Kiwi's as well, those two have got teams who know which way their bread is buttered. Lipawsky is another name, certainly if the weather turns south. He seems to be the darling of the French speakers.
Franny though will be determined about this, hell he has been banging on about this since the Continentals. Of course the little sprog has been having wet dreams about this race since his balls dropped. He has been all over the media coverage, I dunno I wonder whether he will be a bit burnt out by the time we get to match day. Belgium probably have like 10 different plans for the race - but the truth they have Vague, an old codger and a fat bastard. I dunno if Franny goes pop their plans will be up the swanny.
Going to give it another go to get team Blighty in some sort of unity - I can ride for myself okay but it would be helpful if we can make it a bit more mano-on-mano early.
It's been a few weeks now, and still the UCI have shamefully failed to act on the appalling incident in Torku where Gregory Bernard pulled down Schiltz' handlebars causing him to crash, in an absolutely disgraceful move.
Let's not forget the Portland World Cup where Kimi Hakkinen deliberately rode in to Timi Kokkonen and was immediately disqualified. That had only caused Kokkonen to dismount, with Schiltz hit the deck as a result of the incident, which is of course a lot more serious.
Why was Bernard not disqualified from that race? Why did he not receive a ban? The UCI has a lot of explaining to do, and a fuming Christian Schiltz has decided now - on the eve of the World Championships - to finally speak out and demand an answer. It appears that Team Corsio did not file a complaint to the UCI at the time, despite assuring Schiltz' management that they had done so.
Schiltz was in great form at the time, in the leading group when he was brought down, and still managed to finish 5th - a day that certainly was looking to be a first World Cup podium, if not a first World Cup win!
Let's not forget that the previous Classic in Shanghai was the best result of Schiltz career to date. He went on the attack in Lap 7 after Mazzarelli, Verboven and Lipawsky were caught - ensuring that their race was over - and into the final lap it was only Moli, Van Lookeren and Alinejad left with Schiltz at the front. Christian did everything right - attack to drop the non-Europeans, and then force Van Lookeren to lead out at the end. Unfortunately he did not quite have enough for the win, but still secured a fine 2nd place.
There was another superb result in Ostrava where again he made the final 4, amidst tougher competition including World Champion Cornelis, and ultimately 4th was the best he could manage - but still very encouraging to notch up another Top 5.
We've also seen the end of the Coca-Cola Trophy, where Christian Schiltz secured a great 7th overall finish. At the start of the year this Trophy seemed like the best chance of success, even after a horrid first race, but as the season has gone on we have seen Schiltz shine across the world - he is close to the Top 10 of the overall UCI classification now, and would infact be there if the UCI had done their job and applied the punishment that Bernard has more than deserved.
My last races in the field for this year, it was quite good with two wins. Lately, there has not been much to talk about, as my road career had priority, but I will be back for the world championships. My expectations are very low of course, I haven't trained much except on the road lately. Still, on a good day, who knows.
I suppose my best option is to help Dries and Francis. We have two clear favourites with Team Belgium, and unlike what happened in the past, I have no intentions of betraying my country. See you on sunday!
The Belgian leading role at the World Championships is far from disputed this year. Reigning champion Dries Cornelis and young gun Francis Vague should both stand a chance to lead the Belgian team this year. Cornelis seems confident he can take the leading role here. 'It's obvious both Francis and I are strong this year. Francis has had some great shape lately, and should definitely end up well, but I've set the Worlds as my main target for this season, and I already got some great results. I think I should be able to beat him.'
Obviously there's also rivalry coming outside of Belgium. 'Of course, it won't be easy this year. Not only do I have Francis as rival in Belgium, but outside Belgium there are many riders who should be able to surprise here. I think Cook's behaviour earlier on may not have the desired effect on the team support.'
Mazzarrelli and Bauer have excluded him as favourite for this year due to the Cauberg being in. 'I understand where they're coming from. Obviously these hills are not my best terrain, but it's still a World Championship. This is where experience could prove to be crucial, and I think that my experience should be able to guide me to the title this year.'
Welcome in Valkenburg for the World Championships events! Spread over two days, we will have three most exciting races. Both the U23 men, the women and finally the Elite men will fight for their respective titles. At the end of the weekend, we will have three World Champions.
Twenty minutes before the Elite Men cross, the weather is perfect for cross as we know it. A bit of rain, just enough to turn the fields into mud, and lots of wind. This might discourage long range attackers and might favor those with a punch at the end. But the Cauberg will be the biggest obstacle and he who wants to conquer the Rainboy Jersey will have to tame it eight times. The final 200 meters are upwards, on the slopes of the Cauberg. If it comes down to a sprint, it's a matter of who has anything left in the legs.
Before we go down to the field, let's take a look at what this weekend has already brought us. We might learn something from those races with our eyes on the upcoming race.
World Championships - Elite Women
The women's race was locked tight for a long time. A group of eight eventually broke loose halfway the race. The head strong wind brought back any attempt to ride away solo, and so 4 women went into the final lap together. On the jumping bars, Laura Severijns from the Netherlands unfortunately misstepped, losing the race in the process. Severijns is always good in a sprint, but she wouldn't be able to show it today.
Kiyoko Sato, Ada Marlow and Hayley Hansen went in the final 200 meters together. The Norwegian Hayley Hansen is a big surprise, at only 19 years she will take her first podium of the season, in this race.
Sato went early, but was immediately countered by Hansen. However, the final 50 meters are tough with the gradient. Super strong and also only 21 years old, Ada Marlow came around Hansen to take her first World Champion Title, in her first year as a pro. This is the youngest podium ever at a World Championship. Maybe this is a sign of things to come with the Elite Men, as well?
Elite Women - Top 10
1
Ada Marlow
POLAND
51'41"
2
Hayley Hansen
NORWAY
s.t.
3
Kiyoko Sato
JAPAN
s.t.
4
Laura Severijns
THE NETHERLANDS
0:03
5
Christiane Dufort
FRANCE
0:07
6
Els Decruynaere
BELGIUM
s.t.
7
Tess Jackson
UNITED STATES
s.t.
8
Marianne Van Distel
THE NETHERLANDS
0:14
9
Ljuba Vanek
CZECH REPUBLIC
0:26
10
Lieve Van Amstel
THE NETHERLANDS
0:28
World Championships - U23 Men
This race always proved to be exciting, with the big guns riding with the Elite Men. The U23 race is always a good preview for what's to happen with the Elite Men, too.
And here, too, we saw a closed race until about halfway. Jan Souçek, at the start of the season completely unknown, went off in a solo attack on the Cauberg. He got joined by Pieter Van Dyck, a local, one lap later.
Despite the quality in the chasing group, with New-Zealander Milan Listerijn, Fabrizio Lorenzi and consistent Indian Amir Khan, they couldn't get any closer to the leading duo.
On the Cauberg, Souçek outsprinted Van Dyck for the World Title. Van Dyck might've lost the title in his own Valkenburg, the Dutch crowd does see a next Dutch superstar in the young Van Dyck. The question is, will he ride with the pros next year? Meanwhile, Dobransky has already send a tweet into the world, announcing Souçek as his heir of Czech cycling. Dobransky, once among the very best in the field, will ride the World Championships with the Elite Men in less than 10 minutes.
U23 Men - Top 10
1
Jan Souçek
CZECH REPUBLIC
57'21"
2
Pieter Van Dyck
THE NETHERLANDS
s.t.
3
Amir Khan
INDIA
0:17
4
Milan Listerijn
NEW ZEALAND
s.t.
5
Fabrizio Lorenzi
ITALY
s.t.
6
Stan Van Overberghe
BELGIUM
0:24
7
Guido Visconti
BELGIUM
0:27
8
Kurmanbek Nazarov
RUSSIA
s.t.
9
Peter Christianson
AUSTRALIA
0:33
10
Farai Olujimi
NIGERIA
0:37
World Championships - Elite Men
The riders are getting ready for the start. Francis N. Vague was the first one at the start line, he seems very focused today. There's a lot of pressure on his shoulders, too.
Start Line: Only five minutes left for the start. Tension are visibly growing. The cameraman takes a shot of all the riders on the front row. Matt Mazzarelli, a name you can definitely expect today. James Carlisle, the enigma, where will he finish today? Dries Cornelis, outgoing World Champion, but able to succeed himself. Elliot Cook, the controversial Brit. Sylvain Lipawsky, not on a hot streak, but is renown for peaking for the big races and finishing it, then. Shay Gormley, a strong Irishman, but his second part of the season has been less fantastic. Last few weeks there has been signs of improvement, though. Hafthor Eldfjallsson, the rider from Iceland will hope for a podium today, a notoriously fast starter. Gregory Bernard, a name that doesn't pop up much, but be careful with him. Michael Bollinger, a hot new name in cyclo-cross. He's growing into his body later than Vague, but some say he might be even more talented on the long run. Francis Vague, the absolute favorite for today, with a strong team to back him up.
Despite the lack of strong Dutchies, the crowd is huge, we guess at about 10.000 people here! They've seen Van Dyck come up as their new star, hopefully he can confirm next season. Lots of Belgian fans here, too, with photos of Vague and Cornelis everywhere!
Lap 1: We wait in silence... 3, 2, 1, start! You wouldn't make much money with this bet, but Eldfjallsson shoots out of the front line. Vague knows this and is close on his wheel. Bauer and Lipawsky have the explosivity to start well, too. Bauer, one of the worst starters at the start of the year, has improved gradually and today he's coming at the foot of the Cauberg as the fourth rider. Rik Van Fleming managed to sneak into fifth, coming from the third line. Quite an impressive start!
These riders turn into the field together, after the first climb of the Cauberg.
And then, a small gap, Cook, Cornelis, Verboven, Mazzarelli, Schiltz, Bollinger, Bennett, Bernard. Another small gap and then we have Gormley and Carlisle.
The riders have the wind right in their faces now. Van Fleming takes the lead in the front group. It might surprise some people that he's here now, but Van Fleming has always been a rider for the Championships. Today he will ride for Vague, though.
With Verboven, Bennett and Cornelis in the chasing group and Vague, Van Fleming and Bauer up front, Belgium and New Zealand are off to a perfect start.
Cook is the big engine in the chasing group, together with Mazzarelli and Schiltz. We're in the woods now. Van Fleming continues to keep the pace high at the front. Vague is sitting at his wheel. Bauer, Eldfjallsson and Lipawsky follow.
One lap completed and we'll have 8 laps, as expected.
Lap 2: Van Fleming doesn't even look behind him. It's obvious he has his orders: ride hard. Van Fleming is not the rider he once was, but he can still keep this up for a few laps. He's putting a lot of pressure on the favorites who missed the cut. Unlike the Women and U23 race, we've been racing from the first meters.
Meanwhile, the chasing group is only 6 seconds behind, but Cook is having more difficulty finding someone to cooperate. They're mostly looking at him, as top favorite. He's doing about three quarters of the work, now.
And in the descent of the Cauberg, Gregory Bernard makes a steering mistake! He goes down on his right side, it looks bad. He gets up and tries to get back on his bike. But after five meters, he stops. Over and out for him. Luxembourg is down to half of its powers, with only Christian Schiltz left now.
Vague is completely focused, he's keeping the wheel of Van Fleming perfectly. This is something we haven't seen from Belgium, ever. This new national coach must've gotten all the riders on one line!
But Vague, Lipawsky, Bauer and Eldfjallsson are still waiting for Van Fleming to do the work. With Cook chasing, the gap decreases.
Lap 3: Everyone is afraid of doing too much work, and so Van Fleming continues to grind it out alone. Definitely the man of the first two laps.
In the chasing group, Matt Mazzarelli accelerates on the Cauberg! He's trying to bridge the gap with one jump. Cook follows the attack, with Verboven sneaking along with him!
At the top of the Cauberg, Mazzarelli, Cook and Verboven join the leading group. Christian Schiltz doesn't want to miss this move and throws himself in the descent. Cornelis - perhaps the most technical rider ever in the sport - easily moves with him. Bennett decides to follow Cornelis but he slips in the corner and goes down! It doesn't seem like he's out of the race, but he's taken quite a hit nonetheless.
Schiltz really impresses here. With the wind head on, he closes the gap to the leaders, right before the section in the woods.
And so, we have a regroup. Our leaders are now Eldfjallsson, Vague, Van Fleming, Lipawsky, Bauer, Cook, Verboven, Schiltz, Cornelis.
With 4 out of their 5 riders in the head of the race, Belgium show their base strength. This has been a beautiful race so far. The lead group is quite large, now, surely we'll see some attacks. Van Fleming is keeping the pace high, now, but Belgium will want to play out their numeric advantage soon!
Mazzarelli misses a step on the stairs and hits hit knee, but he recovers well and jumps back on his bike.
The mud is thick here, and Van Fleming keeps the pace high enough for everyone to really use their power to get through it. It'll be a long and difficult race for everyone today.
Lap 4: We head into lap four. We still have 10 leaders. Gormley is following at 12 seconds. Belgium is still in pole position, with 4 riders out of 10 here. But with Cook, Mazzarelli, Edlfjallsson, Schiltz, Lipawsky and Bauer, the race is all but over. The main favorites are all here.
On the Cauberg, Belgium unfolds another part of their tactics as Verboven attacks! Bauer is quick on the draw and follows the attack. Lipawsky won't let anything go and is on Bauer's wheel. Cornelis decides to go with them, too. And then, nothing. Vague is obviously being monitored most of all, and in that case, this move is a possible strategical masterpiece by Belgium. With everyone afraid to waste energy, there isn't a lot of reaction.
They now have Cornelis and Verboven as the front, while Vague can sit back and counter.
As Verboven turns into the field, we time the difference. And that's 8 seconds. The favorites obviously decide to give them a small margin. They must be confident that they'll blow back, literally. But with Cornelis, Bauer, Lipawsky and Verboven, that's taking a big risk.
It's definitely an interesting development, and now the chasing group is getting uncomfortable. They have to bring them back, but Vague will just be waiting to strike when they do.
The question is: does this unnerve Vague as well? He might be Belgian, a rider of his talent will want to win this race himself. Maybe Cook & co are banking on Vague coming out to play nonetheless in the final rounds. If they keep the distance within 10-15 seconds, it's workable. One big move from Vague, Cook or Mazzarelli on the Cauberg and they can bridge the gap.
Lap 5: At the front, all four put in their effort. Despite there being two Belgian riders, Lipawsky and Bauer do their share of the work. That means they're all in, now. No half-attempts, all or nothing, this is their attempt at conquering that Rainbow Jersey!
The leaders are just out of the woods, now. Their lead is 14 seconds. And now we cut to a shot of the chasing group. What's that? Francis Vague is stranded at the side of the road! His bike is totalled and there's blood on his right elbow and cheeck. This is a dramatic turn of events!
That changes the race for Mazzarelli, Cook and the other chasers. With Vague potentially out of the running now, Belgium is banking on Cornelis and Verboven, both at the front of the race. And so they realize those four at the front might be the main group, this changes everything, especially Belgium's tactics. Verboven and Cornelis have no chance but to ride hard now. They have been keeping the pace high, but also in the anticipation of Vague. Now, this break is their chance. All in.
We hear Francis Vague is back on his bike, now. We can't confirm this, as of yet, though.
The riders cross the finish line. The four leaders now learn that Vague has fallen.
Lap 6: Let's hit chrono and find out the differences!
Vague has indeed crossed the finish line a minute and a half down on the leaders. It's game over for him, but we're happy to see him back on a bike. It didn't look too good there.
Vague on his bike or not, we turn our attention back to the front of the race. Cornelis seems Belgium's best bet now, but Verboven seems strong today, and you can take him to the sprint and you know he'll finish it. So Belgium is left with a big question: who?
That is a question to be answered later, though, because the four leaders all continue to do their part of the work. If they want to stay out of reach from Cook, Mazzarelli, Eldfjallsson and Schiltz, they'll have to work together, for now. The wind probably scared them off, too. If you go for a solo attack, you better be super strong.
The chasers lose all cooperation and now Matt Mazzarelli attack right before going into the descent of the Cauberg. Cook follows his attack seemingly easily. Eldfjallsson and Schiltz don't have an answer to the attack, but they try to keep the pace high. They seem to find each other in the chase.
Van Fleming has a flat tire! Same goes for Van Vliet, and that's the first time we see a Dutch rider on camera. They need someone like Van Dyck to get Dutch cycling back on track.
The leading group has just passed the jumping bars and approaches the finish line. Going into the final two laps, Lipawsky and Bauer realize they have to shake Verboven if they want any chance at victory. Taking Verboven to the finish is suicide. And will we see an attack from Cornelis? Or is he afraid he'll shake off Verboven himself that way?
Lap 7: Cook and Mazzarelli are 9 seconds behind the race leaders. With two laps left, they can't be counted out. One moment's hesitation at the front and they're back. Meanwhile, The four leaders continue to work hard.
At the top of the Cauberg, Cook and Mazzarelli have brought back the gap to 6 seconds. A regroup is in the making.
Eldfjallsson has shaken off Christian Schiltz in the background, now. He heads into the descent alone. As we expected, the Cauberg is the place of the most action, despite being so early in the laps.
We head into the woods, again, where technitality prevails. 4 seconds behind the leaders are Cook and Mazzarelli. They're about to connect with the front. But then Lipawsky accelerates! He's trying to take Verboven on his technical abilities and shake him off! Bauer follows Lipawsky. Cornelis follows too and is towing Verboven with him, showing him the ideal lines to follow.
Cook and Mazzarelli have been working to reduce the gap for a few laps now, and the acceleration costs them energy.
At the finish line, we clock 10 seconds again. They were so close, but going into the final lap, it might be game over for Cook and Mazzarelli.
Lap 8: We hear the bell of the final round. This extremely exciting World Championship is coming to its conclusion! One lap before the finish, this is the situation:
Remarkable with three of the U23 riders, who are making their professional debuts in this race, within one minute of the race leaders.
Francis N. Vague is riding around in 23th position. Sven Welling, team mate and fellow countryman, is riding next to him, motivating him. Vague is a man of honor, and he'll want to do this race honor by finishing, rather than giving up. Respect for that young lad.
And now, the decisive moment? Lachy Bauer attacks up the Cauberg!
Lipawsky draws out Verboven, who has to react, now, and he does! At the top of the Cauberg, Verboven and Lipawsky are still hanging on. Cornelis isn't!
Mazzarelli and Cook ride an impressive climb of the Cauberg, but the birds have flown. They've come a few seconds closer again, but it's going hard, now.
Cornelis manages to catch up in the downhill, and so we're back to four leaders, and Belgium's chances of Gold increase by the minute.
The wind is blowing hard. Cornelis goes to the front now. Belgium has chosen it's card: Verboven. Cornelis keeps the pace high with Verboven in his wheel. The outgoing World Champion will want to deliver Verboven in the final 200 meters, and then he should be able to finish it off properly.
We're in the woods now, ready to get back into the muddy field. And Sylvain Lipawsky attacks! Once again he uses his technical ability and his power to try and escape! Verboven is suffering, but Verboven never breaks in the final round. He's biting down hard and hangs on, barely. Cornelis and Bauer are hurting now, too. Pain is on their faces. Lipawsky's face only reads determination. What a race!
The jumping bars are left, and then we're going to a sprint. Lipawsky jumps, Bauer jumps. Cornelis takes the jumps easily. Verboven takes the first, and the second - but his wheel hits the bar and he's lost his speed! He manages to stay upright but Lipawsky, Cornelis and Bauer have a gap, now! This could be crucial! Did Verboven lose his chance at the World Title 400 meters before the finish? That'd be very sour for him.
And - indeed - Verboven cracks. That gap has broken him mentally, and the three are gone! Lipawsky takes the two U-turns with extreme style. Cornelis can handle this, but Bauer shows signs of fatigue and makes a minor mistake! That costs him a second, but second can be deciding!
We go into the final 200 meters. Lipawsky is keeping the pace high, Dries Cornelis is right on his wheel. A sprint for glory, Switzerland or Dries Cornelis? A first World Title and a new dimension in his career or another World Title in the fall of his career?
Lipawsky steps on the pedals, 100 meters left. It's uphill here. The Cauberg is full of cyclocross fans, all screaming out their excitement. The noise is deafening.
Cornelis gets out of the saddle, now, too.
But he loses ground. Lipawsky sprints him out of his wheel. He looks behind him. Sylvain Lipawsky is World Champion, Lipawsky wins the World Championships! After New York, after Aosta Valley, Sylvain Lipawsky takes the big fish, the Rainbow Jersey!
Dries Cornelis crosses the line 2nd, visibly disappointed!
Bauer is third, well fought, but tired. Verboven seems pissed off and is fourth.
The sprint for place five is won by Cook. Mazzarelli is sixth. Two very strong riders, but with 2 against 4 they had no chance today.
Eldfjallsson is seventh, Christian Schiltz finishes eight. Both can be happy with that result today. It's been a long race, over 70 minutes.
Michael Bollinger beats Gormley in the sprint for place 10!
Faizullah is 11th, and then there is the youth.
Markson, Alinejad, Renoir, Vieto.
[...]
Francis N. Vague crosses the line over 4 minutes down, visibly hurt. The crowd gives him an honest round of applause. With a small wave, he turns his head back to Sven Welling, and pats him on the shoulder. A thanks for the mental support?
We're ready for the full result as Sylvain Lipawsky climbs the podium's top step.
Well, we've seen a beautiful race today. Some riders will be thrilled, others will be disappointed. But in the end, there's only one winner. Today, that's Sylvain Lipawsky.
See you next week!
Edited by Ian Butler on 23-04-2015 10:20
There's more to being a teammate than occasionally going out for a training ride or pacing your captain in the first few laps. Whilst Rik Van Fleming, Rudy Verboven and Dries Cornelis had down Belgium proud, Francis N. Vague and Sven Welling were seemingly stranded in no man's land after Vague's crash in the descent. Robbed from his chances of the rainbow jersey, Vague disappeared quietly. Yet Sven somehow was found in a quieter part of the area, calmly watching the Belgian fans at least reigning down applause down for Dries Cornelis and his silver medal.
Sven, so we are not sure what to ask first: Happy with Belgium's silver medal?
Uh, it's alright I think. We had a solid gameplan, of course everything gets mixed up immediately at the start. I thought, it'd been smarter if Verboven just sticked to the wheel instead, I think he attacked? At least that's what Francis told me. Dries must have ridden very cleverly I think. Silver is okay. We are not happy though. Our team manager has probably thrown the TV out of the window...
Is Francis alright, any serious injuries?
I don't really know --- to see the blood was a bit tough, and it mixed itself up with all the mud. It didn't look good at all. If this is his second injury now in the season, it might be best to call it a day and start fresh for the cross country discplines. I fear that he may end up a similiar path than me, in terms of injuries and so.
But Francis has talked about the Ardennes Cross, his homerace, as another highlight?
Yeah, maybe he'll be there. I'm sure the crowd there would welcome his presence.
You rode alongside him in the closing laps. What have you two talked about, how was it?
He's still a kid, you know. A really gifted, talented young man but at the end of the day, it's his first season as a Pro. He's been at a loss for words and really shaken up. He wanted to the rainbow jersey and wanted to make his family, country and team proud. Obviously he would have loved nothing more than to win here, but it's - It wasn't meant to be. When you have a terrible crash like he did, it's smarter to pull out. He pulled through, and each lap he was thinking of quitting. We somehow pulled him through. The dutch and belgian fans have clapped for him just the same. I don't think he'll ever remember this day kindly, the Cauberg has pretty much fucked him up.
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
Wow, what a race. It was really intense. And obviously I'm not talking about the Elite Men's race but the U23 World Championships. With Markson, Goldenberg and Renoir all competiting in the Elites, all the guys were really super-duper hyped for the race. It opened up a huge chance for all of us.
I started in third row but quickly got my ass moving up in the top places. Good legs helped me and my dad really made a science out of "putting the right pressure in your tire". I was going fast and I was really motivated. Maybe in hindsight, both a bit too much. Around half-time, I noticed how I was clearly losing energy. I also wasted a bit energy by getting into petty position fights, something I still have to work out to use properly. I tried to keep myself at the wheel of the other riders. When we headed into the final lap, I was still somehow there but long gone was the chance for podium at this point. I had to let go of my fellow compatriots wheel then. Shame I just missed to be the best belgian in the U23 race, but Stan was riding really well.
Havn't heard much about Nosek Souçek before, but the way he has been riding looks like he might be the real deal. But with the top U23 guys missing from the race, it's actually hard to put all performances in perspective. Including mine. Markson and Renoir have been also quite great at the elite men's race as far as I can tell, Goldenberg not so much. Pieter Van Dyck might make the dutch people cheer louder in the future again but I'm not too quick to hype one up here. Too many superlatives get thrown at youngsters. Vague has shown today how fast you can go down and mess up your riding. Also nice to see Millan Listerijn back in the bunch although seeing him start for New Zealand due to disclosed licence issues is pretty weird and kinda awkward. Did he insult some high ranking official, or maybe doping in his junior days, and they wanted to keep it quiet? It'd explain that freak performance 2 years ago. But hold on, I'm not one pointing fingers, so --- I didn't say anything alright. Maybe Milan will change his mind again, he should know that real glory only comes to those who ride black-yellow-red.
Me myself I'm proud to have ridden here today. Coulda woulda been better. Looking forward to the closing rounds of the U23 World Cup now.
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
No official word from Francis N. Vague as of yet, however BKCP - Powerplus Team Manager was quick to vent his anger and took to social media.
His most recent set of tweets:
"Vague 4 Gold today!! : ) #Vagueism"
"In VIP tent, had a good chat with Rik Van Looy and Eddy Merckx about Vague's future. #BigPlans"
"Start time now. Still in VIP tent. Don't want to stand in the way of my team #HugeFeet"
"Rik Van Fleming grinding a huge gear, props! #WhoSucksWheelNow? #Valkenburg"
"@OlegTinkoff Shut up, we won't sell #Vague for any money in the world"
"Excuse me while I'll smash the VIP tent in little pieces"
"Just... come on... whyyy?!"
"I really can't believe this bad luck. I don't even care who wins anymore, but for the record: #GoDries #GoRudy"
"I've now smashed a garden stool and indeed I feel better. We'll strike back."
"Bitter finale for Belgium. Is Silver enough for us?! But solid racing by Dries and Rudy"
Now, some typed off words from Twitter are hardly any official source, however the manager later came to the front of the press. It wasn't a crowd at all, just a few journalists, whose papers have been obsessed with Vague for a better part of the week. So very small local media, nothing to boast about. The majority of media has been with Dries Cornelis the past few minutes anyway. "We can confirm he won't ride next week's Ansbach Cross as well Kwaremont Cross. Ardennes Cross is the earliest he can ride again. We all feel with Francis and are very down. It's now important to get over the loss of such a big goal in such an unfortunate way, and look for new goals."
"I think Francis is, uhm... at good terms with Cyclo-Cross still. But two big crashes and injuries is not good for his body. If he wants to call it quits for the season, we'd understand. He already said, that he looks forward to a holiday now. Some cross country racing and a few minor belgian classics on the road are a solid way of keeping active. We have huge plans for next season already."
Edited by Shonak on 29-03-2015 04:17
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
It's time for one of the most beautiful weekends on the season: the finishing Superprestige weekend. For decades now, the Superprestige is decided in a thrilling two-day final, with Ansbach and the Kwaremont Cross on the schedule. The Superprestige is still extremely close in this cobbled weekend can and will drastically change the top 10.
Coming out of the World Championships, many riders will have had to wash down disappointment, others will have ben celebrating. But with these two important days in succession, is everyone ready for them?
With the road cycling season really kicking off soon, this might be the last weekend we see Verboven. With profiles suited to his abilities, maybe a victory is around the corner?
Race Information
Country: Germany
City/Place: Ansbach
Classification: Superprestige
Starting Time (Elite Men): 12h30
Favorites: James Carlisle, Rudy Verboven, Matt Mazzarelli, Hafthor Eldfjallsson, Lachy Bauer.
Record: 4x Thomas Hilffer (1957, 1960, 1962, 1964)
Race History: Ansbach is an old cross. For ages, it's been part of the Superprestige, and it doesn't look like it'll change soon. Since 1981, it has moved down the calendar to the finishing Superprestige weekend, along with the Kwaremont cross. It's unthinkable to ever seperate these two cobbled races.
Route Information
Technical: 4
Sand: 2
Uphill: 3
Cobblestones: 4
A profile where you need to master all the arts. But riding on cobbles and handling your bike are most important for Ansbach. This is no profile for weak riders.
Ansbach has a tradition of bringing forth a combination of strong and smart riders. With no long straight sections, speed is not as important. Constant acceleration after every turn and twist requires the utmost concentration from the riders. With these narrow roads and short laps, many solo's have been rounded off successfully in the past. Once you ride away and get into a comfortable rhythm, only the cobbles can shake you back to the real world.
The riders are constantly shielded from the wind, yet another reason why sprints with more than 3 riders are rare here.
Expected Weather Conditions
Temperature: 6° C
Precipitation: Dry
Wind: 0 Beaufort
As the media scrum finally dies away after the epic World Championships, one reporter spots a young man in sunglasses trying to head away after cheering anonymously on the sidelines.
Milan! Milan Listerijn!
Yeah?
Oh it's you! Can I have a quick chat?
Sure then, fire away.
You returned to Cyclocross with the World Championships, and, more consequentially, in the U-23 when you are still eligible for the junior ranks. Summarise your race.
Yeah after 2 years racing in the New Zealand amateur leagues and training it was always going to be difficult, especially in the U-23s. I wanted a medal but I'm pleased with fourth because I was the only one in the chasing pack really making an effort. I'd rather that than wheelsucking into bronze. Also I reckon the break was too strong. Those guys weren't unknown.
It was unanimous that it was strange to see you racing in New Zealand colours and not the beloved black, yellow and red. Why did you leave, and are you coming back?
I might answer that another time. When I'm ready. And then I'll also tell you if I'm coming back.
Guido Visconti also commented on the subject, what did you make of his comments?
Yeah, it's a shame I know Guido. But I can't tell you that. Though I'm pretty offended you would even consider I doped. Really friend? I understand people want to speculate but I'm telling you, I never have, nor will ever dope. They tested me and Vague intensely that day, and we were both 100% clean.
Will we see you make a jump to the pros next season? Presumably you will complete the U-23 season now?
Yeah for the rest of the season I'm riding U-23, purely hunting for wins and podiums. It'll be hard against Renoir and the rest but I'm gonna hope.
And yes, I can confirm that I'm riding pro next year if I can.
Edited by jandal7 on 23-04-2015 05:40
A few days after the World Championships, word has reached the public that Francis N. Vague plans to ride all races to wrap up his great debut pro season. It was rumoured that he substained injuries, but according to close sources, he is highly motivated to content for a top place in the superprestige classification and his first World Cup Elites victory.
It's true that I have been down the past days. When you set yourself a goal and you lose it within a moment, lose it all and you all get in return is a helluva pain in your body, road rash and the view of your rivals riding off. Then I think it's usual that you just want to stick your head in the sand, in the mud, and --- want to forget.
For me, I didn't want to dwell on this World Championships for too long, but I couldn't stop thinking about this one single moment that ruined it all. Bad breakups, financial problems and race losing moments. That's some kind of mind poison right there.
Eventually, I have to thank Sven once more. He helped me to the finish in Valkenburg which was a great service of him. He later then talked to me and helped me get back up, on my feet. Mentally.
It turned out that I havn't substained worrisome injuries. Like I said, a bit of road rash. I'm good to go. The harder thing will be to cut the shakles, free the mind and ride well. Now that the World Championships are over, I'd like to win even more the upcoming races and especially the Ardennes Cross, my homerace. I know that they are waiting for me there, at the Kwaremont and in the Ardennes. But truth is, that crash still haunts me and plagues my mind. I feel like I robbed myself of a great chance, and I can't forgive myself for that so easily.
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
As I cross the line I bang my handlebars in frustration. And I can only blame myself for slipping around that one corner. All that happened was I lost Sylvain's wheel. But that costs big-time in the closing seconds of a World Championships.
I slide of my bike and collapse on the ground. Somebody sprays water on me and I realise it's Mikey.
'C'mon, you're wanted!'. I come to my senses and realise I just podiumed the World Championships! The frickin WC! Wasn't bronze the ultimate aim, not dreaming of more? I just medalled where 60-odd other riders didn't! I should be so pleased!
'Well done mate!' he says. I ask him where he came. 9th! That's awesome! He's progressed so much, it's really great and I look forward to another year at least with him, I hear he's got another year with Fonterra-Genesis so that's great.
Anyway, I make my way over to the podium ceremony and congratulate Sylvain sincerely as a friend as well as rival. If it wasn't a Fonterra-Genesis rider I'm glad it was him, he's a good mate of mine. And on another subject, those podium girls were stunning!
The race hasn't really sunk in yet, I'll recap it another time.
So then, the season-end. I'm capping of the superprestige for sure. Both races, I know I'm top ten but I'm sacrificing that for attack, attack, attack and then trying for a win. Ditto Ronnie. See you in Germany then!
Edited by jandal7 on 30-03-2015 05:02
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