Sven Nys (Rabobank) is hot on form as usual in October (Image credit: Isosport)
The Belgian selection for the World Cup event in Kalmthout on Sunday October 21 has been announced by national coach Rudy De Bie. Due to the domination that Belgium has in the sport, gaining selection to be part of the ten man squad is an achievement and leads to becoming a target for the national sporting media.
The big names such as Sven Nys, Bart Wellens, Klaas Vantornout as well as world champion Erwin Vervecken have not missed out on selection and will ride alongside Jan Verstraeten (Sunweb), who rode a strong race in Ruddervoorde last Sunday. Opting for youth over experience, De Bie has selected young talents Kevin Pauwels, Dieter Vanthourenhout and Rob Peeters. Rounding out the squad is Sven Vanthourenhout, a surprise considering he only made his comeback to the sport on Sunday after undergoing surgery three months ago.
Reserves are Ben Berden and Davy Commeyne. The US riders don't have such fierce competition for their World Cup slots, as most riders stay stateside until later in the season. However, USA Cycling announced a team of eight riders who will contest the event, including US champions Ryan Trebon and Katie Compton, Worlds silver medalist Jonathan Page, who resides in Belgium, as well as Jonathan Baker and junior Ian Boswell. Christine Vardaros and Sarah Kerlin round out the women's team.
