Omega Pharma - Quick-Step Cycling Team came just meters away from a victory at 110km Cape Argus Pick n Pay Cycle Tour on Sunday, as Julien Vermote tried his best to stay away solo, but the elements and a well organized pursuit foiled his plans. Iljo Keisse finished 4th in the highly successful South African cycling event, which attracts 35,000 riders every year. Kristof Vandewalle, Keisse, and Vermote all raced the event, and the OPQS Board also partcipated.
"I attacked with another rider with 7km to go," Vermote said. "At 3km from the finish I went alone, but behind me a local team organized the chase. There was also a lot of wind. I tried to fight through it, but they caught me at 200 meters from the finish. Kristof and Iljo were in the group. Iljo tried for the sprint and finished 4th. I think we had a good race. It's not easy with only three riders. Here, the level is really high. But we are happy. We will try again if there is also an opportunity. The race here is great. We really enjoyed our stay, and I hope even Mr. Bakala and our board enjoyed the trip!"
