Stijn Devolder: Throwback Cyclist, Belgian Style

Devolder's win at Flanders was his biggest to date, but the Tour promises even more prestigious victories

Stijn Devolder began his ascent to cycling's top level last season while riding for Johan Bruyneel's Discovery Channel cycling team. He took his home country's national road race championship, and with it the coveted Belgian national jersey, which he wears to this day. Since that historic win though, Devolder has also taken his first classic win, at the Tour of Flanders. Devolder attacked the field early at De Ronde, and soloed home for the win, his biggest result to date.

Devolder is a rare cycling talent. He can time trial and climb, and has the individual strength required for the one day classics. He is one of only a few riders that is capable of contending in all types of races. His Quick Step team has high hopes for the 28 year old, and have made him their designated team leader for the upcoming Tour de France.

Devolder is an underground pick as a contender by many cyclin fans in the know. He has had an excellent season so far, and Patrick Lefevre, Quick Step's manager, sees Devolder more as a stage race rider than a classics specialist. If Lefevere has his way, Tom Boonen will lead the team each spring, and will pass on leadership responsibility to Devolder in the Tour and Vuelta.

Currently racing the Tour of Switzerland, Devolder has shown that his form is good. He remained with the elite climbers in the first high mountain stage (Cunego, Schleck, Kloden) and is in position to contend for the overall win. He'll continue to build his form as the Tour gets closer, and could end up being one of the biggest surprises in this year's TdF. One thing is for sure: by the time this year's Tour de France is over, all cycling fans will know the name Stijn Devolder.