Nys simply the best; Superprestige round 1 wrap-up

By Brecht Decaluwé

During the first of eight events of the 2006/07 elite cyclocross season, Sven Nys (Rabobank) made clear that he - once more - is the big favourite for the overall win.

Weather conditions in Ruddervoorde were still fairly unusual for cyclo cross. Dry weather created a hard, dry and fast course and this tends to frighten the attackers. Sven Nys knew that and he waited … only one lap! The UCI-leader then geared up to his real competition speed. Nobody could follow the Belgian champion and they never saw him back. Sven Nys gathered an advantage of 40" and grabbed the win in a very crowded and sunny Ruddervoorde.

Nys explained his glamorous performance after the race: "Yesterday (in Dottignies) I was already very good. When I came to Ruddervoorde I knew I would be good as well. I’ve been sleeping in my special room which simulates a high altitude. I’m competing near my maximum now and apparently my race speed is just too high for the other riders ... I’m eager for some races with mud as they should fit me even more!"

Behind Nys, the battle for second place was won by local hero and teammate Sven Vanthourenhout. “I feel like a rider who’s always worth a podium place," Vanthourenhout said. "Hopefully I can get battle for the victory in the near future.”

For full race results, report and photos from Superprestige #1, click here.