Peers sprints to victory in Katjeskoers
Lars Peers secured victory in the Katjeskoers with a strong sprint finish. The Belgian first tried his luck with a late attack, before ultimately sealing the win in the sprint. He convincingly beat Rhys Vancom and Robin Dooms.
St Martin’s Square in Ypres provided the backdrop for the ninth edition of the Katjeskoers in the U17 men’s category. At 12:25 p.m., the starter’s flag dropped and the riders set off on a 71‑kilometre course in and around Ypres.
Coupe (Sprint 2000 Charleroi ASBL) was the sole attacker to take on the Kemmelberg (Belvédère) with a small advantage. He was soon caught, however, by a group of around ten riders that had broken clear from the peloton.
For a trio featuring Peers (Crabbé‑DSTNY), Vancom (Velo Club Ardennes) and Dooms (Wielerclub “Onder Ons Parike” vzw), the pace was not high enough. The trio went on the attack and earned the right to sprint for victory in the Rijselstraat. Peers first tried his luck with a late move two kilometres from the line, but without success. In the sprint, however, the Belgian proved the strongest: he outpaced his two breakaway companions to win the Katjeskoers, holding off Vancom and Dooms.
