Charleroi

A new Flèche start
One year after having commemorated the fiftieth anniversary of the Bois du Cazier tragedy by hosting the Giro’s finish at Marcinelle, this year Charleroi once again demonstrates its affection for the ’Little Queen’, as Wallonia’s top town celebrates its thirtieth anniversary. An opportunity to remember to what extent the cycling tradition is well anchored within the fifteen old communes, now merged together, and how much it is part of the sporting and cultural heritage. At one time, cycle races were plentiful in our districts, providing real reserves for young talents, some of whom were to have the chance of riding with the pros. The finishes of the Flèche Wallonne at Marcinelle, for the GP de Wallonie at Charleroi or for the Etoile du Sud at Dampremy, will refresh some memories among the older generations.

Since the cycling world has not escaped globalisation, this era is now in the past. It is with strength and vigour, in the name of this glorious past, that Wallonia’s top regional centre reaffirms its loyalty to this so very popular sport that is cycling.

The Flèche Wallonne at Charleroi is also an opportunity to look towards the future by organising a new Flèche start.

www.charleroi-lasportive.be