Belgian rider Greg Van Avermaet (BMC Racing)(Image credit: www.ispaphoto.com)
Marcus Burghardt (BMC Racing Team) looking forward to the start, as well as to the birth of his child in a few days time.(Image credit: Sonja Csury)
George Hincapie (BMC) at the head of the peloton approaching the final climb.(Image credit: Bettini Photo)
Two former Gent-Wevelgem winners, Marcus Burghardt (2007) and George Hincapie(2001), are among the BMC Racing Team's leaders for Sunday's Belgian classic.
BMC Racing Team Assistant Director Fabio Baldato said Alessandro Ballan and Greg Van Avermaet will join Burghardt and Hincapie as protected riders for the 219 km race.
"We have four riders who are very strong and in good spirits and condition," Baldato said. "Who will lead will depend on the race, such as if there's an early breakaway,or on the wind – which can be a big factor."
Hincapie is optimistic. "I feel really good – better than ever," he said. "I've had a good week of training. The whole intention this year was to spend the month of February training at home, then starting with Tirreno, to be as fit and ready as possible for the next three weekends of racing."
