Oosteeklo Kermesse, NE

Belgium, July 20 1997


Race Report

The Dutchman Godert De Leeuw won the sprint in the Oosteeklo kermesse on Sunday. Wilfried Nelissen withdrew with a knee problem. For half the race, the Dane Hoj, Ludo Dierckxsens, Johan Verstrepen, John Talen and the Swede Backstedt attacked and built up a lead of around 4 minutes. The chasing work of the Ipso and Cedico riders however was a highlight. With 25 kms to go, the race became one again.

In the final phase of the race Frank Hoij was very active. First alone, and then with Johan De Geyter and the Dutchman Godert De Leeuw. Peter Spaenhove and Kris Gerits were also involved. The Palmans-duo De Geyter-Spaenhoven tried to work the Dutchman over, but he was not easily shaken off. "I had to cope with De Geyter first, and then Spaenhoven, I knew that I was faster than Spaenhoven in the sprint." said De Leeuw who took out his third win for the seasn. He will now ride in the Dutch Tour Criteriums.

Race distance - 168 kms:

 1. Godert De Leeuw (Ned) 	3.24.00
 2. Frank Hoj (Den)
 3. Peter Spaenhoven
 4. Kris Gerits
 5. Johan De Geyter
 6. Steven de Jongh (Ned)
 7. Hans De Clercq
 8. Kurt Van Lancker
 9. Robbie Vandaele
10. Dany Baeyens
11. Jan Hordijk (Ned)
12. Oleg Pankov (Oek)
13. Wim Vansevenant
14. Pedro Rubrecht
15. Aart Vierhouten (Ned)
16. Christ Hendryckx
17. Erwin Thijs
18. Hans De Meester
19. Tim Lenaers
20. Gert Vanderaerden
21. Gregory Schoelens
22. Jarno Vanfrachem
23. Masahiko Mifune (Jap)
24. Frank Corvers
25. Thierry Marichal

102 Starters
Belgian unless noted