Team NetApp-Endura is motivated for Nokere-Koerse and Handzame Classic
After claiming all the spots on the podium last weekend in Drenthe (Netherlands), Team NetApp-Endura is now motivated to take on the next two traditional Belgian races.
Nokere-Koerse is on the schedule for tomorrow. However, considering the current weather conditions, a decision will be made sometime today on whether or not it will actually take place. The course travels through the Flemish municipality of Kruishoutem from Ronse to Nokere. The riders will cover a distance of just under 200 kilometers, most of which will be on a 14.8-kilometer circuit in which eight laps have to be completed. The profile has a few hills and some cobblestone sections, meaning it will be a difficult race for sprinters.
“Last year, we took fourth place at Nokere-Koerse, only just missing out on a podium spot. But after the success of last weekend, we’re really motivated to make our way up to the podium once again. Of course, as usual, the weather and the shape we’re in on that particular day will play a role in the final decision. But we’ll give it our best shot,” adds Jens Heppner.
The Handzame Classic, a one-day race, will follow just two days later. The race profile is more suited to sprinters. Starting in Bredene, the course will cover 198 kilometers before finishing in Handzame. About a third of the course runs along the North Sea coast, where the wind could play a decisive role. After that, the riders will head inland and back in the direction of the starting line. Three final laps around a 16-kilometer circuit await the riders at the end.
“The race is predestined for a mass sprint. Last year, we stayed at the front until the final meters and sprinted into 11th place. This year, we hope to do even better. The guys are in good shape and know that they're capable of pulling it off," explains Jens Heppner with optimism.
Line-Up: Nokere-Koerse and Handzame Classic:
Blaz Jarc, Roger Kluge, Ralf Matzka, Jonathan McEvoy, Erick Rowsell, Michael Schwarzmann, Scott Thwaites, Alexander Wetterhall