Omloop

Andrija said:

[FONT=Arial]Saturday, February 27.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial]The race marks beginning of the season in the north. Very similar to De Ronde, going over same hellingen with unique prestige among classic's riders. It can be largely affected by bad weather.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial]I have impression that this year riders talk more about it and expect it with bigger excitement than in previous years.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial]Some epic victories were seen, like that one of Gilbert couple of years ago.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial]Usual suspects will be present again.[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial]I think it's time for Boonen to take it.[/FONT]

Both Boonen and Gilbert looked impressive in Oman : Boonen especially so.
I wonder is he back to his old form?

I haven't seen the field for the race but you gotta favour a rider from that part of the world.
Steegmanns perhaps?

I don't know how does Steegmans feel after the crash he had. Although it was minor accident it can leave mark on riders mindset. Especially on cobbles.
Boonen was speaking how he misses this victory and how he'd love to win. That, combined with his current form and team, makes him serious contender.
Looking at start list I have to notice how strong teams are and how ambitious they sound right from the beginning of the season.
Cervelo, Lotto, Quickstep, Rabobank, Katusha, Saxo... They all have more than one man for the race. Sky, Columbia and Garmin are extremely strong squads which will fight for domination on the road. And local Belgian teams will spice the race for sure.
It looks to me that teams will use this race to see who'll have the best chances in April and to find out what tactics they should apply, besides going for the win.
Very strong line up.
Omloop Het Nieuwsblad Start List | Cyclingnews.com

Gilbert, Devolder or Ballan will win.

I think Boonen will want this and he's in good form but I can't see him getting the win here.

Ballan is in reasonable form and we all know about BMC's motivation. They want a GT invite. Perform in the classics and they'll get it. The classic's are high on their radar.

But Gilbert has looked good. I think this is Gilbert's race to win and I think he'll win.

Look out for Matty Goss as a long shot. Columbia's leader this spring.

Hushovd as the defending champ must have a decent shout!

Hushovd Down But Not Out Of Omloop | Cyclingnews.com

Hushovd has done well in this race in recent years.

Someone like Flecha could make a break though and get away.
He's been second and third in this race in recent years.

Het Volk is usually an interesting race.

(ireland are playing England tomorrow in rugby - so I won't be able to see the race live).

profile and route

Flecha won it. Jumped from an escape group of six (including Gilbert and Nuyens) in a crosswind, some 20 kilometers before the finish line. Strong and brave showing from Flecha and first for Sky and Spanish cycling in Omloop.
Farrar and Haussler completed the podium.

Nice win for Flecha.

I didn't see the race as I was watching Eng/Irl rugby match.