Michael Vanthourenhout won the Kasteelcross in Zonnebeke on a snow-covered circuit. In the absence of many big shots, the European champion was ultimately the strongest, after a thrilling battle with Gianni Vermeersch and reigning champion Tim Merlier.
A man who doubles in Zonnebeke and Benidorm, so only one of the favourites.
All eyes were on Michael Vanthourenhout at Kasteelcross. The European champion wanted to savor victory again after an up-and-down season. Last year’s winner, Tim Merlier, and Gianni Vermeersch were also aiming for triumph.
On a fast but treacherous course, the three favorites did not allow themselves an inch from each other. Until halfway through the race they were joined by Lander Loockx and Yordi Corsus.
A slip provided the separation that captured the scene. Only the main bird still remained to be killed.
Tim Merlier caught himself with an error of judgment on a slippery corner, causing him to suddenly hit a pole. So the sprinter had to chase the leading duo, who didn’t slow down their pace in the slightest.
In fact, just when Merlier wanted to connect, Vanthourenhout picked up the pace. The European champion never looked back and even put Vermeersch ten seconds behind with a blistering penultimate lap.
The troubled Michael Vanthourenhout achieved a satisfying victory. He can rest assured that tomorrow morning he will leave for Benidorm with new courage.
Michael Vanthourenhout: “I care a lot about it, after all it’s a televised cross. The course was very treacherous with slippery points. Gianni and I were the best in the race. It was difficult to make a difference. I’m happy that I managed to pull out the last straw. With a win in the bag, things can’t go wrong tomorrow in Benidorm.”
Gianni Vermeersch: “All in all the cold wasn’t that bad. My legs slipped constantly, which was annoying. Second place was the maximum achievable. Michael had a bit of a surplus throughout the race. It was just a bit ‘ faster in the turns and I was jumping. It’s easier to get over the beams. There I had to close the gap again and again. The Belgian championship was a disappointment, but now I finish the cyclocross season well.”
Tim Merlier: “I can definitely live with my third place. I don’t have enough feeling with the cross and the cornering speed wasn’t good either. In the past I always rode on tubes with less profile on ice. But it was option today, because I made too many mistakes. Michael has a very special technique. In West Flemish we say “cut the road”. So I couldn’t follow his line. My cyclocross winter was short, but I’ll go home feeling good.”
2024-01-20 14:57:00
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