Fluid Mechanics #2 ~ Frank Vandenbroucke

Mar 26, 2019

Written by Thom Barnett

In 1998 Belgian Frank Vandenbroucke celebrated his breakthrough win as a pro at Gent ~ Wevelgem.

With less 30 kilometres to go, Nico Mattan, Ginaluca Bortolami and Carlo Bomans are trying to get away. All moves were covered by the Saeco team, riding for the Italian sprinter Mario Cipollini.

At 20 kilometres from the finish Mattan (Franks team-mate at Mapei-Quickstep) jumps again, soon after Lars Michaelsen follows with Frank on his wheel.

The three ride together until FVDB jumps the pair before arriving in Wevelgem.

Michaelsen cannot follow, Mattan refuses to chase his team-mate.

FVDB crosses the line with his arms up in the air, his arm-warmers rolled down to his wrists.

Impressive tactics ~ Fluid mechanics!

(Rumour has it that VDB was also one of the best break-dancers in West Flanders).