The Tour of Flanders: Andy’s journey through cobbles and climbs!

The Tour of Flanders is a bucket-list event for any cycling enthusiast, combining the grit of famous cobbled sections with the challenge of steep, punchy climbs. For those brave enough to tackle the sportive, it’s a chance to ride in the tire tracks of cycling’s greatest legends while soaking in the electric atmosphere of one of the most renowned races in the world.

Andy Yeoman, a passionate cyclist and longtime rep for Sports Tours, has been repping at our cycling events for years. With countless sportives under his belt, from the Etape du Tour to the Paris-Roubaix, he brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to every challenge he takes on. Here’s Andy’s experience riding the Tour of Flanders and what makes it such an extraordinary event.

What inspired you to ride the Tour of Flanders route?

The Classics are probably the most iconic one day races in the cycling calendar. With its legendary cobbled sections and challenging climbs or bergs, I felt compelled to try the sportive to experience what the pros endure in the race.

Can you describe your experience on the cobbled sections? What’s it like to ride on them?

You get to understand just how amazing the pros are to achieve the power and speed they do. They are rounded so the vibrations are not as severe as the Paris-Roubaix but it’s important to not grip your handlebars too tight otherwise you will experience aches in your hands and arms!

What was your strategy for tackling the sharp turns and steep climbs?

Gear choice at the foot of the climb is key. You don’t want to have to be changing gear when you are at a steep part of the climb as you lose power and potentially traction. Also choose a good wheel. Follow someone that you have confidence in who will get up and over without holding you up!

What was the toughest part of the route for you?

Probably the climb of the Koppenberg. It maxes out at 25 percent in parts which is tough enough without having to choose your line to get the best traction to get over it without having to get off and walk the rest of it!

Were there any unexpected challenges or surprises during the ride?

The scale of the event and the number of riders is a true sight to behold but with all mass participation events navigating cycling traffic requires a huge amount of concentration.

How did you find the atmosphere and support from fans along the route?

It’s incredible. The Flandriens are so passionate about cycling and you only get the full scale of this when you ride the event. The cheers you get climbing the Kwaremont are truly fabulous and throughout the event you often see homeowners come out to assist riders with mechanicals and punctures.

What’s your favourite memory from riding the Tour of Flanders route?

It’s a tossup between experiencing your first berg on the route and being part of a chaingang group for the last 5kms as you cross the finish line and then roll through to the finish village at Oudenaarde for a celebratory Belgian beer!

What tips would you give to someone attempting this ride for the first time?

Go big on your tyres to maximise comfort. Some even double up on their handlebar tape! Gravel bikes are becoming increasingly popular for this type of event.

In your opinion, what is the benefit of watching the race VIP with Sports Tours?

Having been a customer and member of the team, I fully appreciate the service offered by Sports Tours International. For an event such as this you don’t want to worry about anything apart from riding your bike. With refreshments at the finish and the transfer to resort after the sportive we take the hassles out of your day.