An American wins Ghent-Wevelgem.

187 cyclists appear at the start in the cloudy Citadelpark at 11.30.
An early escape of Baeyens, Desmet, Charteau and Perque animates the greater part of the ride between Ghent and Wevelgem. However, the efforts of the 4 leaders have been in vain even before leaving the coast. An acceleration of Chris Peers is more successful.

When descending Mount Kemmel, he is joined by Mattan, Vainsteins, Eeckhout, Van Bon, Hincapie, Piziks, Conté, Balducci, Nardello, Petacchi, Hushovd, Zabel and Wesemann.

Museeuw has missed the early escape and now follows in a first pursuing group together with about ten other cyclists. Shortly afterwards, this group is caught up by the peloton.

After the second climb of Mount Kemmel, the fourteen leaders ride in the direction of Wevelgem with a 2' advantage. Against all expectations, local rider Mattan attempts to break away between Hollebeke and Zandvoorde. Wesemann, Piziks, Van Bon and Hincapie succeed in joining Mattan. In no time, the five leaders build up a lead of 45".

Mattan tries to pull away unnoticed but attentive Hincapie counterattacks appropriately.

In his turn, Latvian champion Piziks surprises his co-escapees at less than one km from the finish. Wesemann, aware of the danger, closes the gap and by doing so gives free way to Hincapie and Van Bon.

The American sprints in the middle of the road; the Dutch champion at the side of the bleachers. They cross the finishing line side by side.

The difference is minimal. Just like in '94 and '95, the photo finish has to indicate the winner. After a few minutes, the verdict falls: Hincapie first, Van Bon second.

RESULT: 187 participants of whom 72 are qualified

1) George Hincapie (USA), 215 km in 5h 0', an average of 42 km 999 m/h
2) Leon van Bon (NED)
3) Steffen Wesemann (GER)
4) Arvis Piziks (LET)
5) Nico Mattan
6) Niko Eeckhout
7) Chris Peers at 42"
8) Daniele Nardello (ITA)
9) Erik Zabel (GER)
10) Gabriele Balducci (ITA)

© Rudy Neve 2006