The decisive move was made on the second of three Kemmelberg ascents, where the duo Van Aert-Laporte rode away. It was Caleb Ewan who went all out to follow the duo but just like Florian Vermeersch, he could just not close the gap on the cobbles. The two Jumbo-Visma teammates went on to finish a one-two in Wevelgem. In the chase, Lotto Dstny played a prominent role with three riders present after the third and final time up the Kemmelberg. Brent Van Moer, Florian Vermeersch en Frederik Frison went into the final. It was the latter who joined the decisive move for 3rd place, but just missed out on the podium as he sprinted to 4th. Nevertheless, the domestique deluxe is proud of his performance in a heroic Gent-Wevelgem.
“Most of all, I’m proud of this fourth place in a big Classic like Gent-Wevelgem. In the final, I used a technical part to attack. The cooperation was ideal and that way we could battle for third. A fourth place might leave a bit of a sour taste, but I can’t really complain about the top shape I am in after an earlier fourth at Brugge-De Panne Classic on Wednesday. It wasn’t an easy task to stay warm today but luckily the fast racing helped”, Frison said with a smile. “With several mechanical issues for amongst others Arnaud De Lie we also had our share of the bad luck today, but once again we made an impact on the race today.”
Also Florian Vermeersch impressed. Just like in Friday’s E3 Harelbeke, the young Belgian had to deal with bad luck but he fought back and played an important role in the final of Gent-Wevelgem. “Despite the bad weather, I felt really good and this performance is another confirmation of the good shape. After a first time up the Kemmelberg I was in the front but due to a mechanical issue, I was forced to change bikes. I thought my race was over but luckily I could make my way back. In the final, I wanted to reward my good race with a podium spot. Unfortunately, I missed the right move but I am really proud of Frederik Frison. I think everyone wished him a podium place but nevertheless, we can look back on another solid team effort”, concludes Florian Vermeersch.
Images: Photo News.
