Omega Pharma - Quick-Step Cycling Team has announced the selection that will take part in the 170km La Drome Classic on Feb. 23rd and the 197.8km Classic Sud Ardèche - Souvenir Francis Delpech on Feb. 24th.
La Drome Classic will likely be one for the sprinters. The race includes a three-lap circuit in the final at Montmeyran. Classic Sud Ardèche - Souvenir Francis Delpech will include a very challenging finish, where there will not be much rest between the climbs. There will also be a circuit that must be performed three times, but the riders must ascend the col de la Serre (11.9km, 3.2% average gradient) prior to the arrival at the circuit. Also, in the final 3km, there is a passage with an average gradient between 15 and 20 percent. The finish will be a false flat.
"Both races are difficult, but we are at the start with good riders to try to get a good result," Sport Director Davide Bramati said. "Last year Pineau was in the final breakway. This year we can also count on riders such as Devenyns and Meersman, who can really do well in the parcours we will find. Unfortunately we will be without Kristof Vandewalle, who was forced to stay at home due to the flu."