In women’s cycling too powerful displays of vigour, along with drive, determination and skilful tactics, are all key qualities paramount to triumphing in the most prestigious races on the cycling calendar. The athletic prowess required of the women champions present in the line-up at the start of the Flèche Wallonne adds zest to the stakes of this race, a pivot in the sequel to the cycling season. Not only is competition extreme among the world’s leading women cyclists: contenders must brave the slopes of the legendary Mur de Huy, which, for more than a kilometre, tests the mettle of the most resilient pairs of legs, whether male or female.
The final showdown, played out on this signature route absolutely unique in its kind, often gives rise to the most exceptional event of the year in women’s cycling. In the last two editions, the most resilient rider in Huy also proved to be the most consistent and the most capable throughout the season: Marianne Vos in 2007, like Nicole Cooke in 2006, conquered the Flèche before winning the world cup. It would appear that success in the Belgian Ardennes has a positive effect on deserving winners. This singularity was established a long time ago in men’s cycling: men inflict this treatment on themselves since 1936. The women’s race celebrates its tenth anniversary: already it has a tale to tell.
Christian PRUDHOMME
Director of the Tour de France
