The World Cup Dendermonde was a spectacular day for Crelan – Corendon, with Emiel Verstrynge taking second place and Joran Wyseure claiming third. Despite the mud and challenging conditions, the team delivered an impressive performance behind race winner Wout van Aert.
Speaking to Sporza after the race, Wyseure shared his excitement. “I enjoyed myself immensely. In the beginning, my legs felt heavy, but around halfway through the cross I was able to find my rhythm. And I also had a good pace in the running sections.”
Wyseure, who raced with determination throughout, reflected on his strategy and satisfaction with the result. “I immediately tried to go up against Toon and create a gap. I am really happy that I was able to achieve third place here. It was really a race for which I started racing when I was eight years old. I would like to see more of them.”
He described the race as a true test of endurance and skill. “You could call it epic,” he said. “You hardly recognise us anymore. You have to keep going for an hour. Eventually, the mud started to get so deep that you sometimes make a slip or slide. It is a real spectacle. I love doing it.”
Looking ahead, Wyseure is setting his sights on the Belgian championships which take place next weekend. “I have found the right feeling and have come out of the Christmas period well. But this cross cannot be compared to what we are going to experience next week.”
Anticipating the different dynamics of the Zolder course, he added, “I think it will be a fast race in Zolder, where a bit more tactical riding will be required. But I'm looking forward to it. I have a good feeling and we also have a good team.”