Because of heavy rain during the week, the course was transformed into a tough and muddy trail. That didn’t deter Belgian mountainbike star Kevin van Hoovels. After staying with a group of six riders during the early stages of the race, Van Hoovels broke away and was never caught again until the finish.
Van Hoovels celebrated a dominant victory with a remarkable six minute lead over runner-up Sönke Wegner, who took second after a sprint.
The women’s race was won by Belpaire from France. She finished solo with a healthy lead over her compatriot Koenig.