Team Novo Nordisk Left Frustrated at Koksijde Classic

A windy day out at the Bredene Koksijde Classic unfolded in dramatic fashion as the race split on the second time up the infamous Kemmelberg, with Team Novo Nordisk part of the chasing group and left ultimately frustrated.

Czech sprinter Matyas Kopecky missed the split by a bike length, and with the strong tailwind driving the pace, was unable to make it across. Kopecky and teammate Filippo Ridolfo were together in the second group that came within seconds of the leaders but never quite made it.

“Man, it’s so frustrating. Even more than last year, because we came so close over the last laps,” said a crestfallen Kopecky at the finish. “When the attack that caused the split came over the Kemmelberg, I felt like I could almost touch the guy in front of me, it was that close, but niente.”

“We tried hard in the chase, and all the guys worked to try and bring things closer, but as the final laps ticked by, they were still holding a small gap, and in the end, I think it was only three seconds. We need to reset for Cholet now and, like last year, try and turn a disappointment into a success.”

Photo credit: Sprint Cycling Agency