“It is not going well in the spring classics for the time being" - Biniam Girmay admits after modest performance in Gent-Wevelgem

Biniam Girmay's breakthrough in the cycling world last year, which included a fifth-place finish in the E3 Saxo Bank Classic and a victory in Gent-Wevelgem, has not translated to the same level of success in the current season.

“It is not going well in the spring classics for the time being. Fortunately, there is still a long period to follow,” Intermarché - Circus - Wanty rider acknowledged during a conversation with Sammy Neyrinck on Vive le velo, leve de Ronde.

In the E3 Saxo Classic, he failed to cross the finish line, and in the Gent-Wevelgem, he finished disappointingly in the 97th position. The reason behind his underwhelming performance is his low energy levels caused by an insufficient diet before the race. “Nutrition has become essential in today's cycling. Today I didn't eat enough, because I'm not used to that yet. Now I know that I have to eat at least 90 grams of carbohydrates per hour for the next competition.”

Looking to make up for his absence from the Tour of Flanders last year, the Eritrean rider is excited about his debut in the upcoming race and is optimistic about achieving a strong result that would also be a perfect birthday present, considering the race coincides with his birthday.

“I have already called my family. They're going to cut my birthday cake the moment the race starts. Hopefully that will bring you luck. I already long for that day. Everyone knows that the Tour of Flanders is the best race. I really like the crowd on the cobblestones and on the slopes. Thanks to their encouragement, I kick some extra watts,” concluded Girmay.