Nys and Brentjens battle at Benelux cup

Meanwhile, across the pond, Belgian cyclo-cross champion Sven Nys came out on top after a heated battle with other top pros at the Benelux Cup in Apeldorn in The Netherlands this past weekend. It was the first direct confrontation between top racers Bart Brentjens and Nys.

Australian champion Chris Jongewaard set a blistering pace at the start to drag a small group with all the favorites off the front. Rudi van Houts soon attacked and gained a 30 second advantage over Dolphin teammate Brentjens and 'cross star Nys. With three laps to go, Nys closed the gap with Brentjens in tow, but van Houts was not dropped when caught; he maintained contact with the two favorites.

It seemed like Brentjens would take home victory until he was overtaken by Nys in the final corner. Nys then outsprinted Brentjens to the finish while Van Houts only trailed by a few meters.

Winner of the last round of the Benelux cup, Filip Meirhaeghe, finished fourth ahead of Hans Becking in fifth. Jongewaard ended up eighth.

For full results, click here.