Thibau Nys Secures Third Cyclo-Cross Victory of the Season
The Rising Star: Thibau Nys Triumphs at Koppenberg Cross
At just 20 years old, Thibau Nys is already establishing himself as one of the most formidable competitors in the cyclo-cross season. Following his impressive performances in the junior categories, where he became the world champion in 2020 and hopeful world champion in 2023, the Belgian prodigy is now making his mark among the elites. Nys kicked off his first full season with a bang, winning the opening round of the World Cup in mid-October and continuing his winning streak by clinching the first round of the X2O Trophy event in Oudenaarde, Belgium. The challenging course included the iconic Koppenberg climb, a renowned feature of the Tour of Flanders.
Son of the former double world champion Sven Nys, who triumphed at the same Koppenberg cross 11 years ago, Thibau Nys took an early lead in the race and managed to hold off the strong challenge from his Baloise-Trek Lions teammate, Lars van der Haar (+11”), and Eli Iserbyt (+16”), despite a mid-race fall. This victory marks Nys’ third success of the winter season and positions him as one of the favorites for the upcoming continental title, scheduled for next Sunday (November 5) in Pontchâteau, France. Notably, top contenders such as Mathieu Van der Poel, Wout Van Aert, and Tom Pidcock will be absent from the competition due to their participation in the plowed races in December.
VAdm Empel Dominates Women’s Race
In the women’s category, there was little suspense as Fem Van Empel of Jumbo-Visma, the reigning world champion, quickly established a significant lead within the first three minutes of the race. Van Empel went on to secure a solo victory, leaving Denise Betsema and Anna Kay trailing behind.
Published on November 1, 2023 at 3:43 p.m.
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