Gent – Wevelgem – Sylvain Chavanel «This year was really the limit with the wind, and then the riders’ safety was not ensured»

The 77^th edition of the Gent-Wevelgem experienced really hellish conditions.  Rain, cold and wind gusts exceeding 90 km/h came to complicate the already numerous difficulties the riders would face with the bergs and cobblestones.  Only 39 riders found the strength to finish the race after the grueling 239 kilometers.  That did not prevent Luca Paolini (Katusha) from taking a solo win in style.  IAM Cycling, like many other teams, were not unaffected by abandons.  Sylvain Chavanel did succeed in finishing in a place of honor with a hard fought 20^th place overall.

When discussing his day, the multiple time trial champion of France was able to give a clear picture of how the race unfolded.  “This is a classic that has always offered very harsh conditions because of the frequently terrible weather.  But this year, it was really the limit with the wind, and then riders’ safety was not ensured.  Personally, I felt good, but luck was not on my side.  I flatted just as the first echelons were forming.  I managed to jump from group to group until I reached the first group.  But I felt the need to refuel as we hit the Kemmel the first time.  So I was not able to grab the wheels of the strongest riders.  Then I wanted to try my luck and hope that other riders would join me, but that didn’t happen.  My shape is good, but I am still lacking something in my sprint.  Nevertheless, I am still hopeful for the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix.”

Sports manager for IAM Cycling, Rik Verbrugghe, confirmed what his team leader had described.  “Today it might have been wiser to neutralize the race for a few kilometers when the wind was really blowing way too hard with super strong gusts sending the guys to the floor.  But it is true that the commissioners and the team managers are not always aware of the danger the riders are facing.  This is always a delicate and difficult decision to make at full speed.  On our side, I appreciate how well Sylvain Chavanel conducted himself.  He really gave his maximum, and went all out in the final.  We now will turn to thinking about how to compose the best team for the Tour of Flanders.  We will not only take into account the results, but also form as homogenous a group as possible.”