Classic Flandrien star,
Hennie Kuiper wins in 1981...
Tomorrow is Flanders. The biggest race in Belgium. The winner will be crown the King of Flanders.
I read online that rain is in the forecast. If that's true the drama of slippery pave will be a huge factor. My prediction is Mr. Cancellara will not win as there's plenty of mavericks out there gunning for him. As much as I do respect him, there's an upset winner lurking.
Heroes of Flanders!
It's all about team work. There's pressure on Garmin-Cervelo to deliver with the three aces: Hushovd, Farrar & Haussler. Their time is now. BMC is also sending a star squad with serious intentions to win it. 2007 winner, Alessandro Ballan is riding very well especially coming off a solid 4th place in Milan-San Remo. Greg Van Avermaet is a dark horse. His 9th place and aggressive ride in Milan-San Remo proves he cannot be counted out. If there's ever a rider just itching to win is Juan Flecha. He finished 3rd in 2008. And, Team Sky is one of the strongest teams and I definitely think the Arrow will be up there.
One of my favorite riders of the eighties is Hennie Kuiper. Moving from TI-Raleigh to DAF Trucks in 1981, the Dutchman re-invented himself as a classics rider. It worked. With clever teamwork by Roger De Vlaeminck protecting his escape, Kuiper soloed to a monumental win. At 32 years old he won the Tour of Flanders, his first classic victory.
Sunday I'll be waving the Lion of Flanders!
1981 Flandriens...
log jam...
Raas leading Moser, Saronni and Kelly...
Roger De Vlaeminck protecting Kuiper's escape.
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