ProTeam Tars Poelvoorde takes strong 2nd place among the pros

At one point, it even looked like Poelvoorde was on his way to victory, but he was caught in the final meters by winner Jonas Rickaert. "But I'm more satisfied than disappointed," Poelvoorde reflected. "There was a strong field at the start in Zwevezele, with many good pros."

The riders faced true Flemish weather in Zwevezele, with heavy rain pouring down and strong winds. "But that’s the kind of weather I like. After about three laps, 30 riders broke away, then the group was halved again. With four laps to go, the group was reduced to six. There were constant attacks. I tried myself as well, but unfortunately… it was really close. On the other hand, this is my first podium among the pros. I raced in Koolskamp and Lichtervelde recently… I’m learning more every week."

Arnaud De Lie crashed early in the race but escaped with just some abrasions.

Picture: Brecht Steenhouwer