This weekend sees the first “VDB Forever Classic”, a ride in memorial of Frank Vandenbroucke, aka VDB. Just over 100km long, the route goes from Steenhuize-Wijnhuize to Ploegsteert, VDB’s home town and now his place of rest.
I hope readers don’t find his memorial too morbid, nor mawkish but it’s worth noting that the Belgian racer is still cherished by many in the world of cycling, especially in cycling. His exciting style of racing, followed by a decline and personal tragedy, before a premature death leads many to draw similarities between VDB and Marco Pantani.
Sunday’s ride will be attended by many riders, including several pros as well as ex-riders.
Photo: http://www.nieuwsblad.be