Obviously I have a warm feeling towards Amstel, what with it being the NSC betting coup I engineered a few years ago, (I don't think I have mentioned that before!!).
Although they do seem to have ruined the race a little by moving the finish line a couple of flat kms back from the final climb.
Agreed 1066 - endless miles of winding country lanes and extravagant road furniture don't quite cut the mustard after arenburg and the kwaremont. But I can get excited about flèche wallone.
I couldn't help myself, and ended up throwing a couple of pounds on Nav, I guess for old time sake.So did you have a bet for today?
I held back as no one jumped out who I fancy.
Having seen Valverde at Pais Vasco and Strade Bianchi, if he can maintain that form then I think he'll be very hard to beat today. I'd much prefer anyone else, other than Gerrans, to win it though, and preferably from a decent attack like Kreuziger last year.
1066 mini (m) ran his fantasy team past me this morning. I was quite impressed by his inclusion of dark horse Cunego AND the big three. He also has Mohoric in the break.
Update: Just seen Purito has crashed and abandoned Hope he'll be ok for Wednesday.
I couldn't help myself, and ended up throwing a couple of pounds on Nav, I guess for old time sake.
Working on the theory that he's the Garmin fella sent up the road to act as bait so Slagter to gets a free ride.
Only RN has the engine to stay away.
In a moment of clarity I did cover that win & ew bet with Pip Gilbert.
60 odd km to go. Break just over 5 mins up the road:
Christophe Riblon (Ag2r-La Mondiale), Alexey Lutsenko (Astana), Matej Mohoric (Cannondale), Pim Ligthart (Lotto Belisol), Manuel Belletti (Androni Venezuela), Pirmin Lang (IAM Cycling), Preben Van Hecke (Topsport Vlaanderen), James Vanlandschoot (Wanty Gobert Groupe) and Nicola Boem (Bardiani CSF)
Purito, Andy Schleck, G - all abandoned due to crashes. Dan Martin and Zubeldia also amongst abandons so far.
Cheers 1066. That break won't last then.
G has abandoned due to a crash? Hard to believe...and Schleck too. I am truly shocked.
I'm gobsmacked
I like the presence of Lutsenko there. Gasparotto set up would be nice.
It would be great.
They'll catch them with 4.6km to go though, and today's the day for...
Simon Gerrans.
That would spoil my day to see him take victory. One of my least favourite riders.
Why's that? Always seems like a nice guy to me. And I like Orica Greenedge as a team.
I even quite like Matthew Goss. Even though he is a constant and recurring disappointment.