Middelkerke European Cyclocross Championships: Belgian and Dutch Sweep

 

The European Cyclocross Championships ended Sunday in Middelkerke, Belgium. In the Men’s elite race, Toon Aerts took a thrilling victory to edge out defending champion Thibau Nys! The Belgian took the title nine years after his first victory in 2016. The Flemish rider rode a tactical race staying with the leading group until the final laps. He managed to break away from Nys, powering to victory. Aerts crossed the finish line with the same time as Nys (58:40), Jordan Wyseure completed an Belgian podium.  

Inge van der Heijden was the surprise winner on Saturday in the elite women’s race. The Dutch rider took off from the start and gradually extended her lead, and crossed the finish line with a comfortable advantage. Top favorite Lucinda Brand settle for silver, Aniek van Alphen took bronze for a Dutch sweep.