Ahhh, back home. Well, sort of. I'm from Essex, which borders Hertfordshire. I've ridden this route a couple of times, but this is the first time I've actually decided to race here. I've been a spectator a few times, but never actually joined the guys on that course. I'm here just for the ride really; I know I don't have a chance, but I just want to keep my legs fresh. I've been able to see my family too, which is also very nice. My aims for tomorrow are just to finish, nothing else.
Happily I can write today with all good news. I managed to finish this time, and also managed to deliver Arda to a 9th place finish, just ahead of that scum Frederick Muller. Also, if he actually bothers to show up for the race in Hertford, then he'll also be beaten by an MTN rider - me. Sure he can boast when he beats me on his terrain, but this is my house now. Hopefully I'll be able to crack the Top 5 as well.
I'm content. Two good results to start the season, but I could definitely have done better. I don't know if it's because of the team or just inexperience, but I hope to crack the top 10 soon - maybe when we get to Australia for the next race after Hertford. Speaking of which, I won't be competing in Hertford in favour of the coinciding Under 23 race being organised. Hertford is more for the sprinters, which I am not. Hopefully racing with some young guys such as myself, I can get a win. Also, I do believe I am the youngest rider in the so-called peloton, which means that in a few years, based on how I've been going, I should be a superstar.
Until then though,
Michael.
After two amazing performances in the first two Belgian races, Sven Nys came to Matt's home and he kindly gave him a detailed interview where he tells us his feelings about his first races, but that's just a part of it!
Why don't you take a look?
Why don't we start talking about your 1st cyclocross race? Sure. My first race was a total surprise to be honest. At the start I felt very, very clumsy. But after a few laps I started to get familiar with the ground, and I wanted to give my best shot. I think my race conduct was almost perfect, now I can't remember exactly how it went, it must be because of all that alcohol, I only remember that I ended up in 6th place behind Bernard, the mud, the pain, the people shouting and nothing more. But boy, it was an amazing race, I love this sport.
And what about your second race ever? That was even more great. Really, after the first race i think that I got a bit of experience already and, considering that it suited me perfectly, it went how it had to go. I was a bit weary after the race of the day before, that may be one of the reasons why I wasn't always able to follow the guys that ended up on the podium, but thinking again, I can't complain that much to be fair. My perseverance enchanted the audience who was shouting me up all the race long and paradoxically, remedied to my lack of shape, but be sure, I'll be in the best shape ever for November, my birthday is approaching and I wanna give me the best gift ever in one of them!
And what are your expectations for the next race in Hertford? I'm not too sure about my shape after the 2 previous races, 2 hell of races, so along with my team we decided to take part in the race that will take part in the Netherlands, mostly to take a rest, but I expect at best a placing in the top-5 if I'm gonna feel very fit.
Ha, that's a nice scoop Matt! And what does your family think about your first races? They're excited as fuck! Literally! *laughs* My father is still a bit shocked because he never believed in me, he always considered me as a wimp, but this morning he phoned me literally with the tears in his eyes. The first thing he said was "Sorry Matt". I was completely surprised, and I promised that I'm going to visit my family in Apulia the next week. I love them, even though without them this may be my 4th or 5th season in the professional cyclocross, but hey ho, c'est la vie, questa è la vita.
Thank you Matt, best of the luck for your next races Thank you Sven, have a nice day!
Interview by Sven NysEdited by matt17br on 25-12-2014 11:16
With Shay Gormley and Francis Vague, the season has taken a good start for the young blood. The older generation is looking to protect its status and tomorrow is as good a chance to do so as ever. Jack Smith, 7 time winner here, will definitely give the youth a good fight for the victory.
Many professional riders will not appear at the start to race in a U23 race in the Netherlands. The race organisers of the Great Hertford Classic have expressed their sorrows that the young riders of this peloton apparently don't take the real classics seriously, as they are only interested in competition races.
While the reaction is definitely over the top, we'll miss some of the names who could've achieved greatness here. Riders like Pierre Lipawsky, who would finally have a chance to ride for their own accord and achieve something special, will be sorely missed tomorrow.
Race Information
Country: United Kingdom
City/Place: Hertford
Classification: Classic
Starting Time (Elite Men): 15h30
Favorites: Dries Cornelis, Ronnie Hira, Andrew McLaughlin, Shay Gormley, Sven Van Vliet, Rik Van Fleming, Francis Vague, Sven Welling.
Record: 7x Jack Smith (2001, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2010, 2011, 2013)
Race History: The Great Hertford Classic has been around since the mid 50s. It's not known as a tough profile, but turned into a real classic nonetheless. It was the season opener for 10 years, but has been moved back again. Now it's the perfect race to put in the first double weekend, to ease the transition from the off-season to a busy calendar.
Route Information
Technical: 5
Sand: 0
Uphill: 2
Cobblestones: 3
The route is known for its technicality, but also for its speed. Three quarters of the field is all about flat riding and power. It's pretty straightforward hard riding with some twists and turns and a few bridges. But once it turns into the old playing field at the school it takes place, a technical zone begins. Only a quarter of length, but it's constantly up and down, left and right, with quite a lot of running.
With enough rain, this profile turns into a mud festival and running will actually be one of the decisive factors for the winner. Overall, it's a profile for fast, powerful riders, but technical abilities come in handy, too. There is not much to say about this race, so instead it's best to let the riders speak through their actions. Tomorrow, Jack Smith will be looking to make it an 8!
Expected Weather Conditions
Temperature: 7° C
Precipitation: Rain, heavy
Wind: 0 - 1 Beaufort
UCI Statement - Case #1031: Max Power
A decision has been reached in the case of Max Power. Asking permission to use steroid injections to allow a faster healing has been denied. This would create too dangerous a precedent and will not be tolerated.
Power will have special permission, however, to be excused from the no-needle policy, strictly under the eyes of an official UCI-appointed doctor. It is also this doctor who will decide when Power is allowed to race again. Priority is Power's health. As long as he is not fit to race, he will not be allowed to, despite his personal convictions.
Despite not ending the way I may have wanted it to, I was able to better my first result of 28th by 11 places. A crash caused me to lose my position in the top 10 early on in the race. Who knows what may of happened.
Myself like majority of the cyclocross peloton will be moving across the channel to race the Hertford Classic in the UK. A different sort of circuit we have faced in Belgium that will play into my hands I hope. A top 10 is my aim and I think achievable. It features long stretches of flat racing and a lot of power will be required. There will also be some cobblestones to ride over but they won't be too difficult I will be avoiding sand for the first time. It's a very technical circuit that maybe made worse bad weather and mud baths. I'm sure we will see some different names towards the front contesting the win. It's going to be very hard to over look seven time winner Jack Smith however, he's my pick. The safer option this time.
I'm just going to ride hard and give it my all again, my tactics worked in Belgium for the most part so I see no reason to change, fast start etc etc. I'm really happy with the relationship I have with the team to help me develop and become a better CX rider. Unfortunately Max is going to be out for about a month missing his home race which is a massive shame for him and the race and the fans hopefully he can recover in good time to make something of his season.
Looking forward to the race tomorrow, the last one in Europe before we head down under for the first World Cup race of the year.
We catch up for another interview with Swiss star, Sylvain Lipawsky
So, you were pretty close in Blaarmeesen, you really thought you could make it up that hill.
Yeah, well today I came to the startline thinking, let's go for the win, take one for the team and not race for second place, everyone else, except maybe Vague, didn't want to take too many risks, they just wanted to not lose points, so I took this as my chance and really went for it, you saw me jumping over the bars every lap and when I came to the climb that lap I though, if I make it to the top I'll win, if not, I think we'll see a sprint, so I went for it and you live and learn, but maybe next year I'll be a metre stronger, it's actually encouraging how close I was to the top at 23.
So, Hertford next week, the rumour is you aren't racing?
Nah, Pierre will probably take leadership for all his hard work, while I go down to Australia, I think that I can get some really good preparation in for Hobart, Melbourne and Tekapo and maybe take one on the riders who don't get that extra prep, moving from cold climates to hot and the 24 hour time difference, will take more of a toll on those guys. Also, the course doesn't suit me, I can race those bits that require good bike handling, but the course doesn't climb much and there are some cobbles, even with heavy rain next week, a top 5 at best isn't worth some great prep for races that matter more.
and how about your pick for the race?
Well I think Pierre has it. haha, well I'm always backing my brother, but Gormley will also be strong in his home country.
Sven van Vliet recently moved over from the road to cyclo-cross, we catch up with him ahead of his first big race.
So, team leader in Hertford, I assume?
I don't know, I'll ride as if I am, I hope my teammates support me but I don't know what my manager or anybody has been telling me, it's pretty annoying.
Do you think you have a good chance, despite problems in the team?
I just have to say that you never know. I'll race tomorrow and just see how it goes.
and how has your change to cyclo-cross gone?
I don't know, I just can't seem to understand anyone, I thought it was a European sport.
Well, we'll let you get back to training.
ok, thanks.
Today I arrived in Great Britain, the rain was very very heavy. Do they call the race off in that? I asked Arda. He laughed and told me that this was cyclo-cross, I was confused. There is no sand today, but I will race anyway, my manager wants me to and I don't want to get on his bad side after his problems with my ability in ice and snow, but even just then before I write this, out on the training course I keep coming off, although I haven't been injured seriously yet. But yeah, we better not be racing in that weather, I'm pretty sure Arda was joking, well maybe a little, maybe he just wasn't telling the whole truth, yeah.
Anyway, I'll speak next week, I have to prepare in this, ummm, this ummm, Arda!, what's it called again?! oh umm, rain I have to prepare in this rain.
In Hertford I'll have my first go at leadership, this course really suits me and despite being asks to go to Holland and race there, this race looks a lot better for me, maybe I'll even take a good result. Anyway, I can't talk for long, because I have to prepare and talk to my teammates about strategy,
Both belgian riders had an disappointing start to the new season. Whilst Van Fleming was at least good enough for a Top 20 ranking in the opening classic of the season, Welling so far was largely in the shadows of his much younger teammate Vague. However, Vague may not have the level of traditional powerhouse riding, which is required on such an eventful parcour, and this may open up a chance for the injury-plagued second rider of BKCP - Powerplus. Shortly ahead of the start, Welling was shy about his chances, but he hopes that "a tough approach towards the Hertfordshire cobblestones may grant him the opportunitiy to unsettle large amounts of the competition early on". Welling anticipates at a true mud feast, seeing the heavy rain as good omen. "I love grinding through mud. Let's definitely make it memorable."
Any race tactic discussion is unnecessarcy when it comes to Rik Van Fleming. The reigning Belgian Champion is still infamous for the same race tactic we have come to know him for. "I like the profile. It demands awareness, willingness and tough grinding. Add the heavy rain and it will be more about endurance than you might imagine. There are not many parts where you can be surprised but it's a race where you have to ride your teeth out and stay on the wheel. If I manage to hang on, I'll look forward to the sprint." Predictable as usual.
Meanwhile, youngster Guido Visconti has remained on the continent, following his desire to only ride Belgian, Dutch and French Pro races on the top level, whilst all events further away will remain closed for him by his own will. He is set to participate at the dutch U23 race.
Edited by Shonak on 25-12-2014 23:16
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
Well a bit of time has passed, and I feel like I should describe the race at Blaarmeersen in a bit more detail. So, let's start at the beginning. I don't understand why the worse riders think that starting up front will give them a better result. I mean, honestly. For at least the first half of the first lap I was just blocked by a bunch of these guys and I couldn't get to the front.
I really hate to say this, I really do, but I'm so glad that there was a crash. I rally hope that Max Power recovers quickly, and I'm glad that Rudy Verboven and the other guy were not too badly affected. However, if not for the crash then the devil knows where I would've finished. The crash allowed my group to bridge up to the front. Unfortunately though, I just didn't have the energy to follow when Vague attacked with Cook. I tried to play it cool with Mazzarelli, but maybe I shouldn't have. Otherwise he might have attacked and I would've been able to follow. Really though, it's risk versus reward. If I hadn't bluffed, then he might've attacked and then dropped me. Then I would've probably dropped even further down the field - being on my own and all. In the end I'm glad that it happened, because I managed to muster up the strength for an attack to get third.
Also, the guys that finished above me I don't really see as main competitors. Sure, they're great, but I think that guys like Mazzarelli, Hashir and Cornelis are my main competitors. Fortunately I beat those three on the day, and Cornelis also lost quite a bit of ground.
Arda Akdeniz The Digital lover,Cycling and Cyclocross lover
Arda Akdeniz wasn't able to comment today as he was extremely depressed because of a horrible race+seeing his former girlfriend hanging out with the guy who made her deceive Arda.
Interview with Arda
Interviewer:How was your race?You look disappointed.
Arda:Fuck off.
Interviewer:Hey
Arda:I need some time for myself go away.
Interviewer:Bye
To be continued ...
Edited by Forever the Best on 26-12-2014 10:31
The user formerly known as 'The Schleck Fan' Gracias Alberto.
Well, I want to apologise to the fans that came to see me in Gent, even though it wasn't my fault. For three laps I was in the front, thanks to your support, and then it happened again. Power went down in front of me and Van Drenthe and me went over him. That's what you get for putting two road racers in a cyclocross race I guess.
It's too bad, I had the right feeling from the start, but the crash ended my race. A lot of people passed me, and there was no point in taking enourmous risks, especialy with the image of Power on my mind (hope he recovers soon!). And then you start realising it's all decided by details, a questional manouvre by Cook one round earlier made me miss the leading group and I wouldn't have been near Power. I need to review it on the tv later tonight, but from in the field, it did look intentional to get me off my bike.
I won't be taking the trip to the UK with most of the guys tomorrow, as there's a U23 race closer to home. Of course any chance of a good Superprestige general classification is gone now, so I'll be cherrypicking crosses even more now.
In our first double weekend, we're here for the Great Hertford Classic. Only 24 hours ago, Francis Vague crossed the line first in the Blaarmeersen, but now we're here for the second classic of the season. Forget about those points today, it's a date with history you've to be worried about here.
This race kicks off the calendar in the United Kingdom, where several races will be contested this year. The weather is terrible, so it's great cross weather!
Weather Conditions
Temperature: 7° C
Precipitation: Rain, heavy
Wind: 1 Beaufort
Start Line: We miss quite some riders today. The U23 race in the Netherlands is very popular today. It's understandable, the Blaarmeersen was a very tough profile, so young riders aren't interested in another 1 hour race. It's one of the toughest season starts I've ever seen. The second weekend is already a double weekend, which is pretty unique, too. Let's give these youngsters a chance to grow, shall we.
So who have we here to compete for the victory. It's a tough call today, the race is technical, but with plenty of flat, straightforward sections to make up for time losses. The biggest surprise of the day is the amount of running. Half the technical section has turned into a cross country run. I actually think technicality isn't a must to win here today with this weather. Power and running is the main thing.
Elliot Cook has made a last minute decision to start today. We can only applaud that in the young rider!
The big question of the day: will a Britain rider take the victory today?
Lap 1: And the riders are off! Robert Wells with a fast start. It's obvious he wants to show his strength on his home soil. Carlisle is off to a fast start, too. He lives practically around the corner here. So he'll be looking for a good result. Abdullah Saboor has taken the worst start imaginable. About these Afghans, there has been quite some controversy about their place in the peloton. But so far, I'm inclined to say they're trying hard, but they just don't contribute much so far. It's only early in the season, though.
So the laps are quite easy: we start with a lot of fast, hard riding. This goes on for quite a while, we gap some bridges, nothing too difficult. We turn into the old school yard a little over halfway. Today it'll be mainly running there. After that, we're back to straightforward racing until the finish. With a 400m final straight line, there'll be time enough to prepare for a possible sprint.
So now we're headed for the running section. The peloton is still together. - Oh and what did I just say about those Afghans? Tariq Faizullah tries to attack while running. Matt Claveren is on his tail. They have a 5 meter gap.
The gap is growing. Finally, the can get on their bikes again. This profile really should suit Ewan Wilson, but it appears he's not managing well. It's probably the rain getting to him.
We cross the finish line for the first time. As expected, the first lap didn't have much in stock for us. The two leaders are Tariq Faizullah and Matt Claveren. They have a 6 second gap on the still-very-large peloton.
Lap 2: The peloton doesn't seem very interested in chasing very hard. Most riders still feel the Blaarmeersen in their legs, I reckon. The two leaders have 10 second now. The jury makes it official: 12 laps today.
Lap 3: Nathan Starc has finally reached the head of the race. After chasing solo for half a lap, he's caught up. A 23 men peloton, including riders as Welling, Hira, Van Drenthe, Smith, Hashir, Cornelis, Carlisle and Vague, is half a minute behind now. They have to be careful not to give away too much to these guys!
Lap 4: The peloton has bought back some time. 24 seconds is the measured difference.
OH, Matt Claveren makes a mistake and has to correct! He pushes Nathan Starc in the fence! He goes down spectacularly! Claveren looks behind but he won't stop, this is still a race. Starc stays down, and so we're back to two leaders. The crowd looks worried.
Starc has abandoned. It doesn't look as bad as we thought, though. But with a broken bike and still 1.2 km left to the technical zone to change his bike, his race is lost.
Hafthor Eldfjallsson goes on to the attack. It doesn't surprise us, he must be happy about today's weather conditions. With the management doubting his technical skill, they, too, must be pleased about the technical section turning into a runner's section today. Sven Van Vliet and - surprisingly - Ewan Wilson follow his attack!
Lap 5: Wilson seems to be growing and adapting to the rain. The five leaders have a 25 second lead, so about status quo. Nothing much is happening at this point in the race. It's a straight forward race, where tactics don't really come into play at this point. Unusual for a cross, we still have a very large chasing peloton.
As the riders cross the line, we give you an overview at the halfway point.
Lap 6: At the front, we have Hafthor Eldfjallsson, Sven Van Vliet, Ewan Wilson, Matt Claveren and Tariq Faizullah. The peloton follows at 23 seconds, the full list of names;
Behind them, the race seems over already. Vague is having a bad day and is lagging behind the peloton. Those who had hoped that yesterday was the start of an era of dominance, will have to show a lot more patience. Don't forget this is still a boy. Give him time.
Other notable absent riders: Thijs Van Lookeren, Jannik Stolz, Elliot Cook. It is unknown if they're having an off-day, are letting it slip or are just here to train a bit.
Lap 7: The gap has been reduced to 8 seconds. We still have a very large peloton. But now it's starting to rain even heavier. The technical section has turned into a complete wasteland. There is no riding through it anymore. We've never had such a wet edition in all these years. We're in England, baby!
In the mud, the peloton is splitting apart now, the running breaks up the bunch. The front of the pack has caught up with Faizullah and Matt Claveren. Van Vliet, Wilson and Eldfjallsson are still ahead.
Lap 8: With 5 laps left, we still have no idea who'll be competing for the victory here. Some may argue this has been a boring race so far, but the tempo is high. Nobody dares to attack, or nobody has the legs.
Near the finish line, the breakaway has been caught. We can start again, four laps from the finish!
Lap 9: There seems to be some sort of problem within BP Cyclocross. Jack Smith is having an argument with Nic Hashir. Smith, record holder here, and Hashir, who expressed his belief to be absolute leader here in the media, will have to talk it out, soon, though. The fireworks are about to start!
Mikel Hammarling moves to the front. He's feeling better and better. Jack Smith, experienced, anticipates and moves up in his wheel. Hashir doesn't let him go an inch. You can see tension rising within the group. Everyone wants to move forward now, the pace is incredibly high. They're practically sprinting towards the running section now!
We have an attack! Ronnie Hira speeds away from the group. Hammarling, McLaughlin and Wells follow! Sven Welling tried to hang on, too, but he's struggling! Nic Hashir and Jack Smith look at each other. This is turning into a real sour experience for BP Cyclocross. Their two leaders are staring at each other and are losing the race. Neither will buldge while other riders sneak away from them. Luckily Robert Wells of BP Cyclocross has reacted in time, seeing his leaders' fighting, probably deciding to take matters into his own hands. Shar Gormley, Dries Cornelis and Nicky Van Drenthe rush away towards the front, leaving Smith and Hashir behind.
Lap 10: Three more laps. We have four riders at the front, Mikel Hammarling, Ronnie Hira, Andrew McLaughlin and Robert Wells. They have 7 seconds on a chasing group with Sven Welling, Dries Cornelis, Nicky Van Drenthe, Shay Gormley and - surprising - Pierre Lipawsky. He's riding a silent race, but he's here nonetheless.
Meanwhile we have an abandon from Gregory Bernard. This was definitely not what he was expecting today, another disappointing result. His early season form is not optimal yet.
On the cobblestones, Hammarling is making quite an impression, but they don't last enough to make the difference. We're headed for the running section. Rains keeps pouring down and we're curious to see if the difference can be made here, then.
Andrew McLaughlin hits the dirt first and dismounts. He's struggling, though. Tiredness is making its mark. Hammarling is really making a fool out of himself here, running, too. The mud is getting worse by the minute. Robert Wells seems to fare so much better with his bike on his back. He's taking a few meters now. This might be crucial!
He's got a lead. Hammarling, McLaughlin and Hira seem mentally broken. They're still struggling in the dirt while Wells is already back on the bike. McLaughlin mounts his bike. Hammarling and Hira are a bit behind. They have to be careful, Sven Welling is coming closer now!
Lap 12: The final lap! Robert Wells is riding solo. Will he save the day for BP Cyclocross? The crowd is cheering him on, he's well loved here, it seems. McLaughlin is 20 seconds behind. What a difference he made in only a quarter of a lap. 2 British riders in pole position, cyclo-cross has truly changed.
Hammarling, Hira are 30 seconds behind, with Sven Welling another 10 seconds behind them.
In the middle of the pack, Timi Kokkonen and Kimi Hakinnen have already started fighting for being the best of the two. Their rivalry is a big hit with the fans. Just see the facebook page: Timi vs Kimi.
The final running section won't change the outcome here, Wells is superiour here. McLaughlin, Hammarling and Hira really lost the race in the mud today.
We're in the final meters now. Robert Wells raises his hands, we can see his face in disbelief. With Jack Smith and Nic Hashir in his team, he could've never expected to triumph here today! McLaughlin comes in second, nearly half a minute behind, the biggest difference yet this season. Mikel Hammarling wins the sprint for the podium from Ronnie Hira. Next is Welling, who didn't manage to gap those final 10 seconds to the other two.
Biggest disappointments today include Carlisle, Wilson, Vague, Stolz, Akdeniz, Cook...
Most riders will take a plane this evening or tomorrow to head to Australia to prepare for the final classic until Christmas time: the Hobart Sunny Classic.
Completey wetsoaken, dirty, full of mud. Vague's face is barely to see, he's covered in today's race. He's shivering and a soigneur brings him some towels to start getting him dry.
You finished 22nd today, how satisfied are you with the race?
I lost the race already last night. I celebrated a bit too much and thus I was missing the power. Sorry to the race organization and my team; this was unprofessional. But you only have one first win in the professional peloton. I'm glad I made it to the finish and finsihed the race though. Now I just look forward to the shower. Luckily, my teammate Sven Welling was incredible today and saved our team’s honour. Congratulations to him for a great race!
Well, you are a young lad. We guess this could have been expected from you. Any thoughts on the parcour?
Wasteland, completely utterly shitfest here. If hangovers are usually like this, I’ll never drink again [laughs] Today the toughest prevailed, so massive respect to everybody who lined up and pushed through to the end.
James Carlisle has expressed his dislike that lesser riders make the race fast from the start. Maybe a rule, in which lesser riders are forced to stay behind the real contenders for the win should be welcomed?
Rarely have I heard such bullshit. If he can’t get his legs up, when the light hits green, it’s his own damn fault. Many riders look for a fast start to get some coverage and increase their chances by making the race tough. That’s racing! If Carlisle doesn’t like it, maybe he should create his own sport and get licence from the UCI to make the James Carlisle World Championships! Just because he has some talent doesn’t mean his opinion must be heard, really. Especially when it’s only about him gaining an advantage and ruining a sport by getting control in that sport, which is uncontrollable.
He said he was glad a crash happened?
Wow, I’ve read up on Power’s situation. Really, I shouldn’t say anything… but, come on: The guy is likely to bebound to the hospital bed for a month I think – and Carlisle is happy there was a crash? You see, crashes are part of Cyclo-Cross and of course you gain an advantage from them but when there happens an injury than that’s where it stops. That’s a really heartless thing to say; not only does he complain that he can’t get up and stay in the first group on his own merit but he also likes to profit from crashes?!… [shakes head in disappointment] I really thought our peloton was better than this but apparently we are none better than the road scene. All the best wishes go out to Max Power, I hope he’ll stuff Carlisle’s big mouth once he gets back.
Your words are really harsh, is it because he said you and Elliot Cook are not his main competitors?
No, he’s right about that. At least I lack probably the consistency to score enough points yet, like seen today. But for the time being, we are ahead of him in the Superprestige Classification and surely both of us would like to stay ahead of him.
We will see you in Australia next?
Yeah, definitely. After this british shitweather I really look forward to getting some cycling tan in Australia. I'll be back to my old self then, promised.
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
I guess I need to explain myself - I was literally packing my suitcase for the early connecting flight from Amsterdam when one of my old road buddies called me up. We talked about the race that day and how he was looking forward to the season and caught up on old friends. It did start to get me thinking that a short pitstop in the UK may not be so bad after all.
Lars told me he was going as well - so with the team equipment shipping over I thought why not re-arrange and go across with the crew. I knew that there would be some superprestige races down the line that would have similar parcours and I needed to get some proper race sharpness for these types of tests.
So I took it quite easy - I was surprised by the amount of coverage I got actually. There were a lot of the boys patting my back following my opening performances and it humbled me somewhat. Today though was all about Smithy though and he was looking under pressure from the start. To be honest his team actually played a blinder slipping in an alternative winner but I don't think Smithy really cares about that. For me I actually slipped back a bit early I got myself tailed off a little carelessly and spent a bit trying to get back on to no avail. But I could here a lot of ranting from the BP boys - and they won!
I sort of paced myself to the finish - quite pleased with the workout actually, it did give me a nice insight to racing these sorts of corss races and it was as predicted a bit of a roadie style race with a proper peloton and that. It was nice to see my folks who had popped over and it was the first real race they had seen me in, other than on the TV. They were chuffed to see me doing something constructive and it was nice to have a mulled wine with them before setting off to the airport.
Not many barbs from me today - I guess I getting into the Australian spirit already, defo looking forward to getting out there and thrashing about in the sand and sun.
It has been quite the weekend.
On Saturday, we had Blaarmeersen, in Belgium, and right after the race, we moved to England, because we had a classic in Hertford.
The Blaarmeersen cross would suit Kokkonen pretty well actually, a steep climb, no cobbles. Shame it was 8 degrees and sunny. I hoped to attack, but sunny weather is the best way to stop me, it appears.
I got 25th again, and accompanied Schlitz again, which is a nice guy by the way. Also I slaughtered Kimi, which is nice.
So yeah that evening we went to Hertford, by car, actually. It was my first time to England and it was terrible weather right from the start. I loved it. Shamefully, the course itself didn't suit me well, mainly because of the presence of cobblestones. This time, even decent cobblestone riders had trouble with them, though, because of the heavy rain.
As you know, our team does not have any problems with rain. We did a good job, especially Hammarling rode a great race, and got 3rd! I lost some grounds on the cobblestones, and I knew I couldn't do great here. Luckily Kimi had as much trouble as I had, so when I still had him in sight in the last lap, I decided just to go for it and do everything I can to drop him. Well he didn't want to lose either so it got a very nice fight for the line.
A fight which I won, luckily. My sprint was better. I got 19th after all, which is not bad. This time, I was worst of the team, but still it is decent. This time, there was no Schlitz, he was at a U23 race. But well, maybe I achieve better when he's not here
Next up, there's some Aussie races. The first one is even called ''Sunny Classic'', so yeah that does not sound too well. Well we'll see what I can do.
A nice day for me to train in the mud and rain. I stopped riding very hard, and took the work just for some practise. However -- good on Robbie! I'm proud to see him take victory on our home turf! I'm not sure what was going on with Jack and Nic, but I'll talk to them soon. See you all at Hobart!
#31 Jack Smith
Great Hertford Classic - 11th
Alright, I'll be frank, I'm pissed that this was my result. Nic and I are having some issues -- nothing I'm going to personally release until we work it out. That is final.
Hobart - Expectations and Thoughts
I'll talk to you all about this race with...recent events, in mind. I believe Hashir runs well here. However, until everything we've gone through here is resolved, I'm personally saying that Nic and myself should be removed further media questioning. I'm hoping for a decent finish, but I'm not seeing myself doing quite as well here. -Jack Smith-
#32 Robert Wells
My Result - Great Hertford
I'm on fucking cloud nine right now! Victory at Hertfordshire, what a day! Whatever happened behind me, I don't know, but all I know is I crossed the line first, and that's all that matters! I DID IT!
My Outlook - Hobart
If I'm not still hungover, I'm hoping just to finish. Sand isn't my forte, neither is very hot weather. But hey, maybe we see more BP wins?
Until Next Time...
#35 Nic Hashir
Great Hertford
A message from BP's Media Manager, Harold Croft - Hashir has been placed under media restriction for 1 week. Further information will be released at BP's discretion.
#36 Marcus Flinch
Hey folks! I've heard there are some issues in the squad, hopefully nothing too serious. BP Cyclocross wins! So great for Robbie, his first ever win! I'm personally not too thrilled that I had to abandon, but I did get to watch from a better view, I guess. Well, good job to Robbie, and I'll talk to everyone after the meeting with our media manager tomorrow! See ya!
"America. Show a nipple on television and the whole country goes ape-shit." -DubbelDekker
The season moves forward as we head towards Australia. After the Hobart Sunny Classic, we'll open the World Cup here, too. After a race in New Zealand, the famous United States of America week will really kick-off the season, all three classifications will be underway and it'll turn into a constant mix of brave racing and calculating points and time.
But before all that, one final classic. the Hobart Sunny Classic awaits a new winner! Not a race suited for suckers, the Sunny Classic is requires a winner who can ride through sand, on hills and who can handle a bike. The sand is even deeper than in Oostende.
Race Information
Country: Australia
City/Place: Hobart
Classification: Classic
Starting Time (Elite Men): 09h30
Favorites: Dries Cornelis, Michael Bollinger, Elliot Cook, James Carlisle, Jack Smith, Shay Gormley.
Record: 4x Pieter Gasthuys (1984, 1988, 1990, 1995)
Race History: The Hobart Sunny Classic is the oldest Australian race on the cyclo-cross calendar. Its name derives from the early days, when the start was around noon. The record holder is the sport's most famous legend, Pieter Gasthuys.
The race organisers in Australia were forced to move all Australian cyclo-cross races to the morning when a rider almost died of his exertion in the heat.
Route Information
Technical: 4
Sand: 4
Uphill: 4
Cobblestones: 0
Hobart hosts this race on a parcours created for cyclo-cross, literaly. The sand has been brought in by the nearby coastline and spread across the route. The circuit is filled with obstacles, two batches of both times two jumping bars of 37.5 cm high. There are a few bridges but - more importantly - the route tackles the Sunnyside-hill a total of 4 times, two times on each side.
The sand is deep and prominent, and this'll be the toughest sand the peloton has faced in the season. The uphill is demanding, but the climbs are relatively short so they can be taken on power. But the big challenge is keeping your concentration. With 4 jumping bars, 7 bridges and 3 stairs, this profile is constantly turning around, danger is behind every corner.
The final sprint will be interesting, to say the least. If it comes down to it, you can't come out of the final corner with a lot of speed. In fact,there is a 90° turn - while getting over a small bump. If someone's on your wheel, you can have the professional "wait" and force your tail to set his foot on the ground. The final 150 meters will be sufficiant to take the victory, then.
Expected Weather Conditions
Temperature: 11° C
Precipitation: Dry
Wind: 0 - 1 Beaufort
Nicky, you just finished 6th, your best result this season, how do you feel?
I'm certainly happy about my race and position. It's nice to break into the top 10 finally. It was a really different terrain today with the rain, an absolute mudfest.
You'll luckily heading over to Australia in the next few weeks though!
Haha yeah that's true. The race was definitely affected, some conservative rides. The peloton stays quite big mid race but a few stronger riders were able to get away. I was happy to ride to my limits so I am pleased.
BP seemed to have had team issues today, any thoughts?
Well they took the victory so I'm not too sure what they were arguing about. I've race professional on the road and you really need your team but on the CX circuit you can do it for yourself so they should just man up a little.
An Under 23s race in the Netherlands today attracted a few stars and there were rumors of payments...
I was offered to take part in the race, I won't go into details as that should remain private. I had my heart set on this race though, and I think I showed that it really suited me.
We mentioned Australia, will riding both the Classic and the World Cup race?
Yes I'll be racing both and then I will race in New Zealand also. I will be missing the New York race on the Wednesday as it gives me some extra time to recover and make a more relaxed transition
Sven Welling took really advantage of today's weather. The reknown grinder put in huge gears in the mudfeast of Hertford, to achieve a 5th place overall.
Great race by you today Sven, how are you feeling?
Frozen a bit. It was a shit cold, wet day. Britain at its best. Also, its riders were superb today. I tried my luck but I couldn't reach them. I couldn't go any faster so I'm content with my result.
Was the exzessive weather to your advantage?
I'm known to be a tough guy in the peloton. Some guys are all skin and bones, I can take a beating. So naturally yeah, I might have a bit of an advantage but also the route really suited me. It takes various factors for a result like this today. Luck played a role too.
For the first time you finished ahead of your much younger teammate Vague, how do you rank his performance?
The lad has had a terrible day after his victory yesterday, it's alright for him to an off-day. I'm sure he'll be back at his best come Saturday.
Flight to Australia
Relatively early Francis N. Vague has reached the promised land of Australia. After training on the classic route of Hobart for two days, Vague reassures his fans on Facebook that he is ready for this outstanding, out-sanding australian classic of the year. "I plan to ride for victory in Hobart Sunny Classic." Proudly he attached a photo of his obtained cycling tan; something Cyclo-Cross Rider usually don't have too much off. Some may call his tan actually a nasty sunburn...
Knowing his strengths, Vague puts his emphasis on the coming classic this weekend, whilst the World Cup Race in Melbourne will be more a race to limit losses. "I will probably be at an disadvantage after the first World Cup race and spend the next few events catching up", he admitted. He also looks forward to the race in New Zealand, favoring the focus on the uphill finish. "I havn't seen the course yet, but it sounds like Blaarmeesen 2.0 from what I can tell. It'd be nice to kick off the Coca Cola Trophy Competition with a win too. I heard the race finishes on an uphill, so that's definitely something I look forward too."
However, before Vague takes on the Tekapocross, the Hobart Sunny Classic has to be ridden. Vague's plan is simple. Hold on for as long as possible and grind your teeth out.
"It’s a little bit scary when Contador attacks." - Tommy V
He led the field for a few seconds at Duinencross, but today was something altogether much better for Hafthor Eldfjallsson. With the weather in Britain much more akin to his native Iceland, he went on a powerful attack on Lap 4 at the Great Hertford Classic. Alongside four others, Van Vliet and Wilson in particular, he was in the front group for 4 laps - one third of the race.
Eventually fading away a little, and finishing in 18th place, this earlier attack was a great setup for teammate Mikel Hammarling, who rode to a fantastic 3rd place - Team Odfjell's first podium of the season.
With the winter winds sweeping in, it is therefore disastrous news for Eldfjallsson that all of November will be spent away from Europe, in warmer climates.
Bakari went unnoticed in Hertford and his team are strongly denying rumours that he fell into the English channel whilst being sea sick on the way over. He definitely rode part of today's race. Honest.
A field full of Under 23 riders rolled up in Gieten for a one-off race today, organised in haste before the Elite riders headed on a jet-set tour of the world for the start of the World Cup and Coca-Cola series, and the continuation of the Superprestige events. The Under 23 calendar has been hit hard by many riders jumping straight to the Elite this season, but this race - won last year by Francis Vague - has managed to survive the cull and salvage a respectable field.
The star attraction was clearly Matt Mazzarelli who has had a fantastic start to the season with a 6th and 4th. Unfortunately he was mobbed by autograph hunters and missed the start of the race. He eventually joined proceeding but with a large field of very mixed qualities he spent the whole race playing catch up and trying to get past the stragglers. He never saw the front of the race, finishing 17th.
The first lap saw a strong start from the likes of Fabrizio Lorenzi, Amir Khan, Ally Wilson and Kurmanbek Nazarov, who were all clearly keen to prove themselves having missed the cut for the Elite series this year. But NamDeb CylcoX Project are here with a strong presence, 3 riders, and Ketso Tembi - yet to finish an Elite race so far - was used up to ensure that these early attacks came to nothing.
As the race developed, 7 riders moved clear: Guido Visconti, Mustafa Moli, Mario Guido, Mohuti Sow, Rudy Verboven, Michael Bollinger and Christian Schiltz.
The team work continued from NamDeb CycloX as one after another Moli and Sow instigated attacks from the group, and this did have the desired effect of reducing it further. Mario Guido was unable to keep with the pace, while Michael Bollinger ran into technical problems at the worst possible moment and had a long run back to the pits to change his bike.
The aggression from the Africans was ill thought through however as soon only Mohuti Sow remained in the front, and he too was starting to feel the pace. Belgian hot shot Rudy Verboven was looking strong, while compatriot Guido Visconti seemed almost fully recovered from yesterday's crash. Christian Schiltz made it 4 up front, and he launched a strong attack with two laps remaining.
Verboven took it upon himself to chase it down, with Sow now being slightly distanced. Verboven dragged Visconti back up to Schiltz and then proceeded to set the pace in a bid to kill the legs of the rest of the group. This ended Visconti's hopes and entering the closing stages it would be between Verboven and Schiltz for the victory.
Try as the Luxembourger might he just could not get that decisive gap, and in a sprint there could only ever be one winner, with Rudy Verboven sealing a hard fought victory.
Visconti looked set to roll in from 3rd but he was caught napping by a resurgent Mustafa Moli who stormed back in the final lap to take that final podium spot. Michael Bollinger's mishap cost him a chance of a Top 5 while Mario Guido and Ketso Tembi were just happy to finish a race.
Lorenzi and Nazarov were best of the non-Elite, just ahead of an unknown Czech rider, who we will perhaps see more of in future seasons.
Ok, so first I have to get things clear - I saw Francis Vague's interview and I realise that he's angry with me, which I totally understand. However, let me clear things up.
When I was talking about lesser riders, I was referring to the fact that they kept blocking me, which is stupid and annoying. With regards to the crash, I though I made it clear that it was only beneficial to me in terms of the race. I expressed my deepest sympathies towards Max Power, who I have spoken to, and cleared things up with.
Now, on to brighter news - namely the Hertford Classic. I feel I did well there, keeping in mind I wasn't really looking for a great result. The technical sections at the start helped me out a lot, but that was the only area of the course where I was really good, so when the typical British weather washed it out, I obviously fell back.
Now I'm ready for Australia. I have another classic, which is in Hobart, where I want to do quite well, but I'm more focused on the next two races on the calendar, for the Superprestige standings and then the start of the Coca Cola tournament.
He didn't finish either. That's what I keep telling myself, but it doesn't help. This was my one chance to show that Namibian shitface what I can do, and it was all ruined. It wasn't my fault. That does help. After all that effort to get up to the front group, some idiot decides to lose control of his bike for no apparent reason and send me into the fence like I'm fucking Jonny Hoogerland. Oh, of course he got out of it fine, but me? Oh no. No way I'm running 1.5km to get a new fucking bike. What the hell is wrong with this peloton? Awful Afghans, inexperienced youths, and useless Namibians. This is shit. Just shit.
Great Hertford Classic - Preview
Nicky Van Drenthe
Hobart Sunny Classic - Preview
