Another Belgian semi classic was due today and Team Saxo Bank took another beautiful victory in the 203 kilometer long E3 Prijs Vlaanderen – Harelbeke.

The Danish squad was represented by both Fabian Cancellara and Kasper Klostergaard in the break escaping from the peloton with 40 kilometers to go. Only a few kilometers later, the Swiss time trial world champion accelerated on the cobble stoned surface exploding the group. Now, only Team Saxo Bank’s Fabian Cancellara, Tom Boonen (Quick Step) and Antonio Flecha (Team Sky) were in the lead of the race.

This group of pure dynamite denied all attempts of neutralization, mostly because of the bonecrushing work from Team Saxo Bank’s Fabian Cancellara leaving his two followers in obvious pain.

Using only one powerful strike, Fabian Cancellera created the crucial gap and in spite of an attempt to close the gap from Tom Boonen (Quick Step), the Swiss could raise his arms and celebrate his win.

It was the third win in four days for Team Saxo Bank not counting Alex Rasmussen’s World Championship in scratch race on Thursday.

“First I considered to make an early attack but I knew there was going to be headwind all the way in. On the other hand, I knew that both my opponents were fast sprinters so I decided to make my move on the final two kilometers which turned out to be the right decision. Torsten Schmidt told me to keep on going even though they were clearly gaining on me and I am now relieved that I didn’t hesitate. I really appreciate this victory and I would like to thank the team for doing all the tough work before the final. This victory means that we all can take on Ronde van Vlaanderen and Paris-Roubaix with less stress as both Matti and I participate with two fresh wins. Now, I am able to enjoy the next races even more”, said a delighted Fabian Cancellara after his magnificent victory.

And sports director, Torsten Schmidt can feel the victories having an important effect on the riders:

“All the favorites for the next races were here today so of course, the victory was a big and important result for Fabian and for the team. I clearly sense that the riders were taking on the race today with bigger passion and the moral within the squad is growing remarkably. It’s been a very good week for us where we have been demonstrating great power and we have had the ability to make our moves at the right time”, said sports director Torsten Schmidt.

Story Courtesy: Team Saxo Bank