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Ronde van Vlaanderen ... LIVE (#3)

Hope_tiny by Chris... on in News Comment 355 comments

Your last thread. And a great finale in store...

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amazing to see Thor there
He had good form earlier in the season. It's been a while since he's figured in a finale of a cobbled classic.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 9:57 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Thor is looking very, very lean
this year.  22k to go, Devolder is 14" ahead of the chasing Chavenel group.

by Ruthann on Apr 6, 2008 9:58 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Go Chavenel!

by Christopher on Apr 6, 2008 9:57 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Is Devo insane?
or is this a tactic to give Boonen someone to bridge to?

by Jimbo... on Apr 6, 2008 9:57 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

chasing Devo
America is all about speed. Hot, nasty, badass speed. -Eleanor Roosevelt

by ELVISGOAT on Apr 6, 2008 9:57 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Even Brian is impressed
"Only those who are in top condition can say that the Ronde is not hard. For everyone else, it's the Way of the Cross." -Andrea Tafi

by Drew on Apr 6, 2008 9:57 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Thor smash
Maybe?

Tombak being in there is probably helpful for Davis. I wanna see Davis kick some ass here.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 9:57 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Did Big George...
....get shelled out of the "peloton?"

by Christopher on Apr 6, 2008 9:58 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Chavanel
Can you say "Faustian bargain"?

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 9:58 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Camera bikes
are snoozing in this race.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 9:58 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

fucking moto
Dude, pay attention!

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 9:58 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder is all in
But it's only a 12 second gap.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 9:59 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Bavic done, on to Oud Bruin
I'm going to pay for this...

but damn is it worth it!!

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 9:59 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm getting drunk by now...
Good that no work today

by Bruce on Apr 6, 2008 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

21 km
what if devolder is riding for devolder????  
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 9:59 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Tombak
not too brilliant, Devlderian move there.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:00 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

You can still see the keyboard?
"Only those who are in top condition can say that the Ronde is not hard. For everyone else, it's the Way of the Cross." -Andrea Tafi

by Drew on Apr 6, 2008 10:00 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

well, if
he clears away the bottles, I'm sure he can.

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:01 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

chase group not working so well together
moto again tries to clip chavanel
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:00 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Who's moto
I've missed the reference

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:02 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Devolder
riding for Boonen!?!?
It's just around the next bend. Really.

by tshawytcha on Apr 6, 2008 10:00 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

you think?
America is all about speed. Hot, nasty, badass speed. -Eleanor Roosevelt

by ELVISGOAT on Apr 6, 2008 10:01 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I hope!
It's just around the next bend. Really.

by tshawytcha on Apr 6, 2008 10:02 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Muur-Kappelmuur!
475 meters
9% avg
19.8% max. Not a typo.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:01 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Third chase group
about to reel in the second chase group.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:01 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Good lord...
here we go, coming to Geraardsbergen.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:01 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

G3 still completely intact
26 seconds for G2, 35 for G3
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:02 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I swear Devolder is my new hero...
He may be wasting himself to help Tommeke, or he may be wasting himself for a hopeless break... but to ride like that... after all he's been through... he's got stones man!
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:02 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Lovely picture of Stijn
Hammering all out, earpiece dangling.

All hammer, no tactics

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:03 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I say devolder is trying to do a chavanel
at least as a backup strategy, if Boonen doesn't bridge
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:03 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devo is stupid strong
"Only those who are in top condition can say that the Ronde is not hard. For everyone else, it's the Way of the Cross." -Andrea Tafi

by Drew on Apr 6, 2008 10:03 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Hushovd group caught
gap 32 secs

by Bruce on Apr 6, 2008 10:03 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Gah!
How can you guys type and watch at the same time?

How can they advertise Cannondales right this seconed?

by Christopher on Apr 6, 2008 10:03 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

alcohol
it short-circuits the internal censor

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

coffee
a poop load of it!
Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. -Randy Pausch

by nikki on Apr 6, 2008 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Cannondales
Because it's the last 'lull' before the end...no more ads....this is the only spot....they're only 10 secs...

by Cycling TV on Apr 6, 2008 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Boonen
Looks like a cat about to pounce on a mouse

by Jimbo... on Apr 6, 2008 10:03 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Muur will be the
important point in the race, per usual. Will Hincapie pay for his early attack? Boonen and Cancellara have been conservative.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:03 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Place your bets now:
Who is going to take home the prize?

My vote is for Boonen, what you you all?

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:04 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

If Disco hadn't disolved, Devo would ride for GH..
sad, sad state of affairs.
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:04 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

man I'd hate to breathe all that moto smoke
on a climb, gasping, all the smoke-spewers come by
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:04 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder is tired
Not gonna do it...
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:04 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Geraardsbergen!
So great to see. Action time.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:04 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

\o/ in good position...
at least that's what the commentators say
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:05 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Go stijn go!!!
doing the champions' jersey proud

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:05 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

FLECHA!
Attacks early in the climb... Still a long way to go.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:05 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

pow
America is all about speed. Hot, nasty, badass speed. -Eleanor Roosevelt

by ELVISGOAT on Apr 6, 2008 10:05 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

hoste
has my (grudging) respect

Flecha looking very good too

Cance not so good

--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:06 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Terpstra now
the only one to respond. Out comes another.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:06 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Milram dude will tell his grand-kids
about passing Boonen, Cance, Nuyens, et. al. on the Muur

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:06 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Wow
this is just fantastic!

by Veloki on Apr 6, 2008 10:06 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

And Devo, the Belgium champ,
leads up the Muur.  Poetry.

by Ruthann on Apr 6, 2008 10:06 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder onto the steep part
Slowing a little. He always pushes a big gear.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:06 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

One more time,
THIS IS GREAT!!!

by Bruce on Apr 6, 2008 10:06 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

this is something else
Champion's jersey never looked better. Although his form looks about like mine right now.

by Christopher on Apr 6, 2008 10:07 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

GO STIJN!
gogogogogogogoogogo

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:07 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

holy crap
what a serious break amongst the leaders
Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. -Randy Pausch

by nikki on Apr 6, 2008 10:07 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Flecha is RIGHT behind
out of the saddle. Nuyens. Boonen following. Ballan following. Cancellara in all sorts of hell.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:07 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Flecha barely leading
Everyone chasing as hard as they can

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:07 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Nuyens goes
after Flecha. Boonen close by

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:07 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Flecha
definitely looking better than Devo, at the moment.  Bye bye, Cance.

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:07 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

OUCH!!!
It's just around the next bend. Really.

by tshawytcha on Apr 6, 2008 10:08 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Slippie
rider should be martyn
Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. -Randy Pausch

by nikki on Apr 6, 2008 10:08 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Vaitkus looking good
So is Terpstra. I mean, holy shit.

A Slipstream, Hincapie, and Gilbert chasing hard. Definitely some separation.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:08 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Quickstep looking awful smart now
tom can sit while everybody else has to chase

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:08 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder onto the road.
The gap must be tiny. Chase group is splintering a little. Flecha in his classic TT mode.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:08 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

No MD flag seen
Either the cameras missed it, or Demoncats was told what would happen to him if he blocked a bunch of local guys' view.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:09 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I saw it
It sort of blended in with the lion flags (the yellow/black part), but I could see the red. part of it.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Vaitkus
Working his ass off trying to chase.

17" is the gap

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:09 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Gap is 17 seconds
on the descent. Devolder asking for something from service bike.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:09 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder 17 sec 15 K
calling in service bike to chat
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:09 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Bosberg yet
Stijn has earned his money today.

Tomeke looking good.

Flecha good position, has to work but can avoid a sprint.

Everybody else still with a chance has to beat Boonen in a sprint

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:09 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

so what was
that service bike conversation about?

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:09 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Chasers...
17" back, Boonen, Ballan, Flecha, Nuyens. No CSC, though they're close back. Pippo not there either but is chasing.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:10 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Rast of Astana?
Whoa, surprising name for me. Where is Vaitkus?

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:10 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Rast!
Nicely done. Ballan hits it hard. Boonen still holding the cards.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:11 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Astana
guy is Rast?  Huh?

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:11 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder still looks good
Banging away, 17 seconds. 13 km.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:11 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Tony
I still think he can win this. He's just not giving up.
Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. -Randy Pausch

by nikki on Apr 6, 2008 10:11 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Cancellara back on
Langeveld attacks the chase group.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:11 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

My god I love Stijn Devolder today
he's doing an amazing job of work

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:12 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Gap 23 secs
Can Devo pull it??

by Bruce on Apr 6, 2008 10:12 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Bosberg
1km, 5.8% avg, 11% max.

And the chase grows again. Langeveld goes!

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:12 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Onto the Bosberg
can Devolder hang on?
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:12 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Sorry Tony... I think this is going to be Tom's...
If justice has anything to do with it, Stijn cashes in on the winner's share...
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:12 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Looking very good for Tommeke
Although at this point I'd love to see Stijn take it, or Nuyens.

by Christopher on Apr 6, 2008 10:12 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Tony is riding like Ullrich
Going hard out like an engine, not blowing up. The question is: Will this hurt him on the Bosburg?

Tombak and Klier are in there.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:12 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

It must be asked
Is Stijn Devolder going to steal this?

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:12 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder always mashes
a huge gear on these climbs.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:12 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

BOSBERG BOSBERG BOSBERG
Devolder still hammering away

Go Stijn GO!

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:13 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Bosberg
Looks like a 5 lane freeway compared to the other bergs

by Jimbo... on Apr 6, 2008 10:13 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

how
they push those big gears up the hill at this point in the day is something I can't fathom.

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:13 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Anyone else on the US west coast
Surprised that the sun just showed up?
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:13 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Um, yep
sunny in Seattle!

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Devo is gonna burn
He just can't make it. Langeveld is catching up, and Langeveld is being caught up to.

Sprint at the end? That would kinda suck.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:14 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Oud Bruin done
Wiessekriek for the finale.

WAHOOOOO!

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:14 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

That's Wittekerke
for those of you keeping score at home

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

boonen
waiting too long? Or taking his chances on a bigger sprint?

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:14 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Boonen is gonna have to go
And on the flats, Cancellara is gonna be able to hammer harder than anyone else if he has the energy.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:14 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Boonen looking good
everyone else has to chase Stijn, he's setting up for a sprint

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:15 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Cancellara
left to do the chasing. But he says, "I already won enough this year! You guys work."
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:15 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

10 k's to go
gap 31 for peloton, 15 to the rabo rider

by Bruce on Apr 6, 2008 10:16 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devo is gonna win this!
America is all about speed. Hot, nasty, badass speed. -Eleanor Roosevelt

by ELVISGOAT on Apr 6, 2008 10:16 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Chase group
thoroughly screwing around. 31" down now.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:16 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Gaps
15 to Langeveld, 31 to the Tom/Tony group

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:16 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

10 k to go
Stijn suffering but leading

Go Devolder GO GO

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:17 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Rast hates the motobike
Nice 1-finger salute there

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:17 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I can't imagine how the Flandriens feel
seeing Stijn wearing the Belgian national colors leading the ronde home

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:17 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I think Devo might just pull it out...
I'll get no VDS points, but my heart will glow...
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:17 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Langeveld is a force
in this race today. But not doing much to close the gap to Stijn. Trying to use any draft he can find.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:18 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Go Stijn!
HE-RO-IC!

by Christopher on Apr 6, 2008 10:18 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Wittenkerke is a nice change of pace
but my apologies to the neighbors and my girlfriend if I start screaming at the finale. Its just after 7 am, I'm loopy and the race is coming to a sharp point!!!

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:19 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devo is a hell of a TT'er.
How beautiful to see the Belgian champ out front, so strong!  8k to go, Gap to Langeveld 18" and gap to Boonen group 27".

by Ruthann on Apr 6, 2008 10:19 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Langeveld
earning his pay today.

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:19 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Chasing
Tombak, Rast, and Flecha

Where are Boonen and Cance? Where are you, Tony Spartacus?

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:20 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

chase group
sems to be finally working a little
It's just around the next bend. Really.

by tshawytcha on Apr 6, 2008 10:20 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Rabo rider caught.
Flecha there... 19 secs...

by Bruce on Apr 6, 2008 10:20 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Chase group
Tombak, Rast and Flecha.

So wtf is boonen doing?

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:20 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

That's what I was thinking about Bettini
During last year's WC... never know...
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Flecha, Tomback, Rast
chase up to Langeveld, Nuyens comes across, Boonen follows. Cancellara, Pippo, GH in tow.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:20 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

C'mon STIJNj
keep it together!!!!

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:20 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

2nd gap coming down
Langeveld getting caught by the Flecha group. Rast and Tombak still there.

These guys have to try to catch Devo.

Cofidis going, with Boonen suddenly chasing. Tony behind him.

19 seconds.

Hinc is still in there!?

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:21 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

coming down fast!
It's just around the next bend. Really.

by tshawytcha on Apr 6, 2008 10:21 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

BOONEN BRIDGING
GO TOM GO

(my quickstep bias is coming out)

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:21 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Flecha!!!!
Solo attack!
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:21 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Boonen chaseing up
Cance on his wheel. 7km to go. Langeveld caught.

Just Devolder with 19" in hand, and the heads of state behind.

FLECHA!

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:21 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Cancellara
trying to chase, Boonen immediately in tow.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:21 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Flecha goes
Go, Juan, go!

I don't even know if he's on my VDS or not.

Cance trying desperately to chase

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:21 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Cance responds
Boonen folllowing.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:22 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Cance
holding nothing back

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:22 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Flecha keeps the pressure on
He has a respectible gap.

19 seconds, 5 km.

-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:22 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Stijn with 5K to go...
Flecha chasing
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:22 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

C'mon STIJN
hang in hang in hang in

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:22 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

5km
Holy... Devolder hanging tough!

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:23 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

5k to go
12 seconds for Flecha. This is amazing by Flecha.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:23 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

GO Flecha GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
America is all about speed. Hot, nasty, badass speed. -Eleanor Roosevelt

by ELVISGOAT on Apr 6, 2008 10:23 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

5km 3 miles to go
GO STIJN!!!!

Flecha closing

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:23 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Gaps
9 to Flecha

16 to the Tornado Tom group

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:23 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder using those skyhooks
he's in a zone, doesn't feel it

Flecha's mighty fast tho

--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:23 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I hope
someone's told Stjin what's coming up behind him . . .

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:23 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Gaps melting
Flechaa 9" back, G2 16"

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:24 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devo! Devo! Devo! Devo!
And that's not just the Chimay talkin'
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:24 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

4km 9 secs
Go STIJN GO! GO!

Flecha starting to look for Belgian camera bikes and Nico Mattan

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:24 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

14 to the Tom group
9 from Flecha to Devo. GO FLECHA!

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:24 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

moto passes Flecha
Nuyens coming up. Who's behind?

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:25 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Flecha would be good
but Stjin has earned this.

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:25 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Flecha in a world of hurt
pain pain pain

Belgians are loving this

Nuyens passing flecha

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:25 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Flecha looks done. That's sad.
Nuyens is working hard now. 13 seconds with 3 k to go.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:25 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Nuyens catches Flecha!
9" to Devolder, 3km to go!

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:25 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Where is the camera on Devolder
This is a ride for the ages!!!!

Stijn has earned his place in Valhalla today

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:26 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devi will win, gap 15 secs!
Heroic ride from Stijn!!!!!!!

by Bruce on Apr 6, 2008 10:26 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Gap is going out again
I think Devo is gonna get this unless he seriously bonks

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:26 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devo at 2k to go, 16" gap
back to Nuyens and Flecha.

by Ruthann on Apr 6, 2008 10:27 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder looks like
he just might! 15", 2km to go!!!

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:27 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

what a job
I even hope he holds off - he HAS earned this one.
Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. -Randy Pausch

by nikki on Apr 6, 2008 10:27 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

never thought I'd say this
but boonen or cance would be an anticlimax
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:27 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

2km to go
and I'm out of beer.

(regrets giving the Nostradamus to the girlfriend last night)

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:27 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

here
I've got extra Dogfish Head.  Domestic, but you won't know the difference at this point :)

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Devo
America is all about speed. Hot, nasty, badass speed. -Eleanor Roosevelt

by ELVISGOAT on Apr 6, 2008 10:27 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

That is beautiful
Well done!
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Devolder opens the gap again
Nuyens and Flecha are cooked.
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:27 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Soloing
Spilak is chasing his heart out. Barredo and Cance just behind.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:27 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Spilak
trying to drill it back for Ballan.

Devolder coming up to 1km!!!

I think he has it!

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:28 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Stijn at the red kite
Congratulations to Stijn!

He definitely is the strongest today.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:28 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

an
understatement

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Go stijn go!!!
Quickstep makes a nation happy

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:28 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

the kite
DEVO might hold on
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:28 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

DEVOLDEEEEER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
FREAKING FANTASTIC!!!!!!

by Bruce on Apr 6, 2008 10:28 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Oh, the parties in Belgium today!
Chapeau, Stijn!!!!  300m to go!!!!

by Ruthann on Apr 6, 2008 10:28 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Dude
don't look back. Just ride!

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:28 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder 300m
Flecha and Nuyens pushing hard
-K-

by KevinK on Apr 6, 2008 10:29 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder
Fucking amazing!

Flecha and Nuyens racing hard for 2nd, but they're getting caught

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:29 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Beautiful
fucking beautiful.

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:29 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

He zip[s up
Unreal!!!!!

Dev\o/lder!!!

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:29 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Sprint for 2nd.
Nuyens 2, Flecha 3.

Looks like a High Road/CSC in 4th, not Ballan.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:29 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

winner
America is all about speed. Hot, nasty, badass speed. -Eleanor Roosevelt

by ELVISGOAT on Apr 6, 2008 10:29 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Nuyens 2nd
Flecha 3rd
Ballan
Pozz
Hink

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:30 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Incredible!
Chapeau, Stijn!

by Christopher on Apr 6, 2008 10:30 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

WAHOOOOOOOOO!
HUGE DAY FOR QUICKSTEP, BELGIUM, AND ESPECIALLY DEVOLDER

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:30 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder is my god for today...
... I don't have the expletives or the adjectives.
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:30 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devolder in
stunned, exhausted disbelief.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:30 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Oh, the happiness!
Hugs and kisses for Stijn.  Magnificent!

by Ruthann on Apr 6, 2008 10:30 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Also a note...
looks like Martyn from Slipstream held in that group. Wow.
Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. -Randy Pausch

by nikki on Apr 6, 2008 10:30 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Shit, man.
He's gonna help Maggie out a lot next week, don't you think?

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I can't wait
I told Will I would give him a break but I might need to send an email after that job. Holy balls to him staying with it. Impressed!
Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. -Randy Pausch

by nikki on Apr 6, 2008 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fucking amazing race.
1 week to go until the Hell of the North. I hope it's as exciting as this one.

by BDBrian on Apr 6, 2008 10:30 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Ok. Koppenberg, Jimbo, Crashdan, Ruthann
and the rest of you lushes, meet me for hill repeats in 30 minutes.  6 for each 750ml.

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:30 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I'm not as think as you...
Oh... wait a minute...
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'm suiting up!
But I need to change my kid's poopy diaper first so I might be a little late....

by Jimbo... on Apr 6, 2008 10:32 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Oh, gosh, what a morning!
Clear the roads, tipsy riders comin' through!

by Ruthann on Apr 6, 2008 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

more
America is all about speed. Hot, nasty, badass speed. -Eleanor Roosevelt

by ELVISGOAT on Apr 6, 2008 10:31 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Devo
Come of age today!  He makes one of his attacks stick!

by ursula on Apr 6, 2008 10:32 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

1st & 3rd place for my team
Yippeeeeeeeeee! And I may have gotten 1 or 2 in the  top 10 also!

by Cyclingrush on Apr 6, 2008 10:32 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

WHo all had Devolder on their VDS team last year
and gave up for this year?  Ditto Chavanel?  
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:32 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

wonder how Bruyneel feels now...
This was one of the best races I've ever seen!
Thanks guys!!

by Bruce on Apr 6, 2008 10:32 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Abso-freakin'---lutley!!!!!!!
Although I suspect it was a foregone conclusion that he was going to a belgian team but still... Disco would have been the perfect team this year.

Frick...

Frack...

Pick your expletive.

============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I have no idea what Devo is saying...
But I think it's something like "I... I just... wtf... I ... it wasn't... I won? really??? i... I'm ...i..."
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:33 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Wow...
I've got a fair amount of French and Spanish, and a smattering of Italian and even a little German. But that doesn't help at all with this, does it?

by Christopher on Apr 6, 2008 10:33 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Awesome way to follow the race
Hey,

Just a quick tip o' the hat to all who made this even more exciting with the running commentary. I enjoyed it thoroughly, even without any Belgian (or other) beer.

Chapeau especially for new Brian in ROK, who pointed me to the Eurosport video feed.

--FeltGuy

by FeltGuy on Apr 6, 2008 10:34 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

yep
Eurosport was beautiful today.  A brief bit of panic when they said the were switching to moto champs, but all was good when they pointed out that the stream would continue.

Hey, CTV.  Take some lessons.  Stop promising, and start doing.

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well there it is
Tactics... QS played theirs. For once, their guy up the road was a real threat, and it all worked out for them. Really, Devolder was just too strong for the competition, but would he have gotten away if guys like Cancellara, Ballan, etc. weren't all looking at Boonen? They're showing the replay now of his winning move, and literally the guys in front are looking back to see who's gonna chase. The answer: nobody.

Great teamwork today, and it helps to have two aces to play.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:34 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

which means they have fallen for the same trick
three times now.  How long until tactics change?
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

that's a nice
roll in moto shot of the win.

(And who knew Sean Kelly would have a career as a translator?)

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:35 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

If you're a Belgian
and you win Flanders wearing the champions jersey, your life is pretty much complete.
"Only those who are in top condition can say that the Ronde is not hard. For everyone else, it's the Way of the Cross." -Andrea Tafi

by Drew on Apr 6, 2008 10:35 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

saying something about blackberries?
Or what is a bosbessen, and what does it have to do with cycling?  Can't follow it at speed
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:35 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

blueberry
and still doesn't make sense.
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

All my cycling TV anger is forgotten
but fer crissakes, why does it have to be so hard to log in????

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:35 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Oh no... don't forget it...
Enjoy what you saw... but don't forget to express your unadulterated frustration, annoyance, embarrassment, contempt, outrage, etc... to them as I plan to do, at length with a big thesaurus at hand...
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

not impressed
I know it was just one staffer here, but that noise about copyright issues really pissed me off.  If CTV was worth its subscription rate, it wouldn't have to care about that.  Get your own house in order before you start whining about others.

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:39 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

5th for Hinc!
That's a couple of points for me, anyway.

by Christopher on Apr 6, 2008 10:35 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Stijn
still can't believe it.

Oh good, no Unibrows in the top 10.

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:35 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

great ride by Devolder
but why doesn't Boonen sprint for fourth??? He is ruining my VDS team.

Too bad that Langeveld's moves didn't work

by King of Doping on Apr 6, 2008 10:36 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Would YOU do that ride????
in exchange for a life time supply of belgian beer?
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:36 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Anthony keeps saying this stuff...
...about solo breakaways. Somebody should do a nice chewy analytical diary about that at the end of the Spring.

by Christopher on Apr 6, 2008 10:37 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Boonen
only sprints for first.
"Only those who are in top condition can say that the Ronde is not hard. For everyone else, it's the Way of the Cross." -Andrea Tafi

by Drew on Apr 6, 2008 10:37 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

If QS win
he doesn't care about his placing.

Are we over 1000 comments yet?

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:39 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

OK, kid duty
same time next week, and just about every day in between as well. Cheers all!

by Chris... on Apr 6, 2008 10:37 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Say what??!?!? Where's my VDS update??!?
are you really saying that family comes first??
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:39 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

funfunfun
thx all
America is all about speed. Hot, nasty, badass speed. -Eleanor Roosevelt

by ELVISGOAT on Apr 6, 2008 10:39 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Thanks, Chris!
And Cafe Community! And Cycling.TV for showing up and fixing my account midrace!

And Stijn Devolder for going all Homeric on us!

by Christopher on Apr 6, 2008 10:39 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Thank You Thank You Thank You
First time this in depth with all this and it just ROCKED!!!  Thank you all for being my new and now only home!!!
Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. -Randy Pausch

by nikki on Apr 6, 2008 10:39 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

On my desk in front of me I have...
Two empty bottles of Chimay... one glass still 2/3 full of beer... an empty container of mayo... an empty container of Heinz... and 3 forgotten frites in a bowl...

And... i'm... spent...

============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:40 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

please no additional updates
about the rest of the digestive process
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

lanterne rouge comes in
waving and cheering for himself [grin]
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:40 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Yep
thanks all.  Someone go move Koppenberg back to bed.  Or at least put a pillow under his head.

(Now I've actually got to go get ready for a crit sprint strategy clinic.  Really.  WTF was I thinking?)

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:41 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Hah
No sleep for me, I'm just happy I celebrated the last two KMs to the finish in silence.

an incredible race enjoyed with an incredible community.

I wonder if Chris, Van OP, Drew, Cylesdale et. al. imagined this day when then started Podium Cafe?

i just want to say thanks for all the joy, you guys are amazing.

by Koppenberg on Apr 6, 2008 10:45 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

The ale is gone, the race is over
And now what am I going to do w/ the rest of my morning now that I'm drunk before 10am?

by Cyclingrush on Apr 6, 2008 10:41 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Amazing race!!!
And really fun to hang out with you all too! Thanks!

by Veloki on Apr 6, 2008 10:42 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

there's a women's race?
Seems like cycling TV could have a highlights of that, no?
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:42 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Nuyens not so happy
I guess this was his big chance for the spring...
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:43 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Judith Arndt won the women's race.
THR ahead of Kristin Armstrong.

I love the podium ceremonies!  The roar of the crowd!!  

by Ruthann on Apr 6, 2008 10:43 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

thanks for posting that
Ruthann.  I wish we could get the women's tour on delay or something.

by Sui Juris on Apr 6, 2008 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Me, too. Gosh, their thighs are
so beautiful.  If you know what I mean....

by Ruthann on Apr 6, 2008 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

nap
I so need one but I'm now off for a bike ride with friends up north. Good god this is going to hurt.

After all of this, how on earth am I ever going to watch a VS replay later today.  It just can't possibly come close.

Experience is what you get when you don't get what you want. -Randy Pausch

by nikki on Apr 6, 2008 10:43 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

kinda ugly trophy
truth be told.  I'd rather have a cobble a la Paris-Roubaix.
--JFS

by JFS_PGH on Apr 6, 2008 10:44 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

too bad no Roubaix CTV here in Europe.
I'm sure I'll find something, but nothing like this today. This was simply F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C!!!
Thanks again!!

by Bruce on Apr 6, 2008 10:45 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Great Commentary on CTV
Chapeau to Anthony and Brian. As for their technical architects, you guys suck. Upgrade your fucking servers or buy some more pipe or something so your paying customers can actually get in to you service. You are not invited to my Ronde party this afternoon...

by Jimbo... on Apr 6, 2008 10:46 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Thx all!
Great race, good beer commentary too--nice memories of 3 great years in Flanders... Take care!  Brian

by bFox on Apr 6, 2008 10:46 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

1119 combined comments
adding up all three threads. Nice work kids...

by Jimbo... on Apr 6, 2008 10:50 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I feel an overpowering need...
to watch "The Natural" after seeing Devolder's ride... it's a cross sport experience but applicable...
============= Daniel

by crashdan on Apr 6, 2008 10:54 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

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