Superprestige Gavere Men
World Champion Sven Nys grabbed a narrow win over German national champion Philipp Walsleben at the very muddy Superprestige Gavere Cyclocross race. Belgian champion Klaas Vantornout rounded out the podium.
All images © Tom Prenen
Mr. Holeshot Lars van der Haar had a fantastic start and led the bunch into the mud.
Earlier in practice Bart Aernouts was looking to keep his kit reasonably clean.
Kevin Pauwels during his recon ride.
Once the race was on the action was very frantic.
An endless stream of Elite men came through this muddy section.
On the second lap it was a bit more civilized and Klaas Vantornout is leading a small group here.
A few athletes opted for the wider line as is demonstrated by Bart Wellens on the left.
This guy was quite lucky that his bike did not disappear in the mud completely.
Julien Taramarcaz is ready to dismount.
A small group is led by Lars van der Haar on this run-up section.
Sven Nys is poetry in motion when it comes to cross racing.
More Elie men on this run-up section.
Lars van der Haar pushing along here and enjoying that he can actually ride here.
Late in the race Sven Nys got away from Philipp Walsleben.
Jonathan Page is trying to stay upright here.
A very muddy Tom Meeusen.
Rob Peeters is another strong athlete on the Telenet-Fidea team.
Philipp Walsleben managed to catch up to Sven Nys again, but in the end Nys proved to be stronger.
Different strokes for different folks.
Good times had by all.
