With today's Tour of Flander's on tap, what better time than now to take a peek at some past editions to get you in the mood? Below are some great vids of former legends riding the famed Flanders route. Enjoy!
The start line for Flanders in Brugge is chaotic, as supporters crowd the square to see the peloton off. Riders are relaxed for one of the only moments in the race, as they contemplate their day as they ride past the enormous legion of fans.
Johan Musseuw, the "Lion of Flanders," powers up the most famous climbs at the Ronde, the Kapelmuur in 1998, en route to winning the event for the third and final time. The fans are six deep in spots on the road, creating an electric atmosphere. Musseuw was amazing in that he was relentless, he never let up. Holding his wheel was a chore in any cobbled race, as the Belgian tackled the cobbles with confidence and panache. Too bad his career is tainted due to doping allegations.
Peter "De Peet" Van Peetegem takes the 1999 win for TVM ahead of Johan Mussew and Frank Vandebrouke. TVM was a doping factory, and riders like Musseuw, Richard Virenque, Bert Blijlevens and Van Petegem all were known dopers. In the 1999 version of the event, all three podium finishers were surely doped at the race.
Ballan's attack in last year's race. Notice the raw speed, these guys are flying up the cobbles. Hoste trails close behind, followed by Michael Boogerd, riding the event for the last time, and Tom Boonen. Boonen faded last year, but is pleased that this year's race will feature tough weather conditions. All of Belgium is predicting a huge Boonen win.
In the 1992 edition, the Frenchman Jacky Durand released one of his signature long distance attacks to take the win. This a long video, but worth the watch to see what it is like to ride alone to the win. That it was a Frenchman that accomplished the feat made it that much more impressive, as the Dutch and Belgians have dominated the race throughout its history. As Durand crosses the line, he is overwelmed with emotion.
1996. Michele Bartali rides away from a select group containing Brochard, Zberg, Musseuw, Ekimov, Tchmil, Van Petegem and Vasseur. Bartali, like many before him, used the Kemelberg to jump away for the win.
Today, more memories will be created in Flanders, as cycling's finest classics protagonists ride shoulder to shoulder for the 2008 Flanders title.
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