Race Report: It’s like going back to school after the holidays to find a new kid in your class. Suddenly, everyone’s whispering in the corridors, passing notes, comparing opinions. But how will New Kid change the school dynamics? Better-looking? Smarter? Cooler? Second-toughest knucklehead? The Cte de Cherave slouches against the lockers, 5.5kms from the finish, as the Mur de Huy eyes the cocky newcomer.As we’d see after five hours in the saddle, the new climb played a part, but the old school smarts of a two-time champion gave us a Fleche-Wallonne winner that was no surprise.School reconvened for the Waalse Pijl in Waremme this morning, with all the chit-chat about the inclusion of a new climb, something that could throw a very nervy cat amongst the pigeons so close to the finish. Suddenly, it’s not all about the Mur de Huy any more; just before one of the most iconic climbs in pro cycling inflicts pain and suffering on the peloton, there’s a new obstacle. The Cte de Cherave isn’t long, but the approach is complicated by narrow roads, urban cobbles, tram tracks, tight corners and then a ramp that looms straight up. Maybe, just maybe, it’ll mean an escape makes it to the Mur alone for the first time in over a decade.A Fast StartAfter a lightning fast start, seven got clear, with the escape comprising ex-Tour stage winner Brice Feillu (Bretagne-Sch Environnement), United Health Care’s Daniele Ratto, Lotto Soudal’s Thomas De Gendt, Mike Teunissen from Team LottoNL-Jumbo, Reinier...
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