UCI-leader and Belgian champion Sven Nys (Rabobank) won his third 'cross in three days in Sint-Niklaas. Although the startlist didn't feature the likes of world champion Erwin Vervecken, Bart Wellens and Sven Vanthourenhout, the 'cannibal of cyclo-cross' did need to work hard to get the victory.
Somewhat unknown French rider Maxime Lefèbvre (Josan) managed to push Nys to the limit - Lefèbvre rode in front all race long and Nys needed an ultimate acceleration to get rid of the Frenchman. "It wasn't an easy race and I tried to control a bit from the back; I came to the front when I noticed Lefèbvre was going really hard and my team mate Groenendaal looked unable to get him back," Nys explained.
The organisers may have been surprised to see Lefèbvre at the start after he missed a doping control at the Middelkerke cross last week, but the French rider didn't seem care much about that. "I did all I could to get rid of Nys but I couldn't get away from him. Nys was really strong, but he has been very strong all season long," said Lefèbvre. Asked about the missed doping control in Middelkerke, Lefèbvre said, "I didn't see or hear anything."
For the full report, results and photos, click here.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
