The second classic of the three taking place these days in the Ardennes Mountains, Fleche Wallone brought together Wednesday 198 runners representing 25 teams, located on 194 km, between Charleroi and the famous “wall” from Huy usually decides the winner rule.
Of the many climbs, organizers have designated ten that mattered in a so-called ranking of climbers. After 17 km there was the first escape, a group of 12 runners managed to leave, but shortly after they have been arrived. Later after the platoon shattered into three larger groups, then a “duo” consisting of Dirk Bellemakers (LAN) and Anthony Roux (FDJ) managed the action that lasted almost three-quarters of the race.
The platoon has not taken any initiative of track, escapers have managed at halfway to have an advance of more than 7 minutes. But then Lotto organized pursuit, aided by Kathusa, at 75 km before the final advance was only three minutes, which then remained constant path of several kilometers. About 40 km before the finish of the platoon were off Andy Schleck (RNT), Juri Trofimov (KAT) and Dmitri Fofonov (AST) is launching them in tracking fugitives.
In a circuit of 30 km runners attacked the second time Mur of Huy, expected fragmentation of firing took place, as well as catching a later all fugitives. After several minutes of turnover several groups met, the decision will be postponed to the next and final passage Mur of Huy. To run fast while still dangerous wet road. On the last climb before the final, Côte de Villers-le-Bouillet, a more intense rain, attacked Nordhaug (SKY) and Hesjedal (GRM), Platoon reduced to about 30 runners remaining watchful briefly in a few hundreds of meters. The last mile was the rage a very close fight and spectacular victory back, of course, the most resistant and it was a remarkable finish for Joaquin Rodriguez.
