Cycling: The cycling championships in Namur have started. And the spectators were treated to the finest cyclocross. Promotion of the sport, although as expected the pros from the Netherlands and Belgium were unbeatable.
A puncture doesn't stop Fem van Empel either
As expected, Fem van Empel secured the European title. The Dutchwoman was unstoppable in Namur and can celebrate her eighth win of the season in the ninth race. Even a puncture at the start couldn't stop them. Despite being behind at the beginning, the 20-year-old drove her race confidently and won clearly in the end with a lead of 22 seconds over her compatriot Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado. Another 14 seconds behind was Blanka Vas from Hungary to bronze. The German Stefanie Paul finished the race in 21st place.
Fem van Empel, CX champion of Europe and seemingly unbeatable at the moment. Belga #EuroCross22 pic.twitter.com/FmafqLjXEL
— Lion of Roubaix (@lionofroubaix) November 5, 2022
In the end, Molengraaf wins confidently
The first title at the European Championships in Namur also went to the Netherlands. After her two victories in the World Cup, Lauren Molengraaf also won the European Juniors' race with ease, partly because her opponent – Fleur Moors from Belgium – was unable to start. However, it was not a clear matter until the final round. Only then did Molengraaf take the lead and never relinquish it. Silver went to Italy's Valentina Corvi ahead of Belgium's Xaydee van Sinaey.
LAUREN MOLENGRAAF WINS THE JUNIOR EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIPS!!!#EuroCross22
@cyclingmedia_ag pic.twitter.com/2Wi68yIdWw— Tormans Cyclo Cross Team (@tormanscross) November 5, 2022
Verstrynge cheers, Ronhaar collapses
We saw what was probably the most exciting race on day #1 of the European Cross Country Championships in the U23 class. Because the Dutchman Pim Ronhaar already looked like the sure winner, but actually went away empty-handed in the end. After a furious second half of the race, the Belgians occupy the entire podium. Somewhat surprisingly, Emiel Verstrynge was able to prevail in front of Thibau Nys and Witse Meeusen with six and eleven seconds respectively. Fabian Eder was the best German in 22nd place.
Absolute scenes on the last lap #eurocross22 pic.twitter.com/OXIbV7ZZsD
— Peter. ✊✊✊✊✊♂️ (@PBXscribes) November 5, 2022