Handzame Classic: Grabsch Takes a Chance in Cold, Rainy Conditions
Omega Pharma - Quick-Step Cycling Team rider Bert Grabsch attacked with a little more than 10km to go at the 197km Handzame Classic on Friday — a course that was altered due to inclement weather, eliminating climbs and replacing with a circuit after 35km.
Grabsch and two of his break mates were caught inside the final kilometer, after getting as much as a 22" gap with 6km to go. The race was predicted to end in a bunch sprint, and it was Kenny Dehaes (Lotto-Belisol) who won the scramble to the line when Grabsch and the break was caught. Kenny Van Hummel and Danny Van Poppel of Vacansoleil-DCM were 2nd and 3rd.
Riders began to abandon early in the race as conditions were severe. Several from OPQS pressed on, and also made a front group during an early race peloton split.
Andrew Fenn was the top finisher for OPQS, in 26th place.
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