On Saturday, November 16th, we spent the entire day at the cyclocross in Merksplas following the new Ridley Racing Team. Get a unique behind-the-scenes look at the brand-new team.
The team arrives 3.5 hours before the race.
A fan enthusiastically hands a gift to Felipe Orts. This is one of the best aspects of cyclocross: nowhere else can you get so close to the top athletes.
Felipe Orts and Daan Soete set off to explore the course in Merksplas.
Lore Sas is ready for the start. Since there is no separate U23 category, she starts with the elites – an extra challenge.
The sports director gives the final instructions to Felipe Orts while he warms up.
Can you spot what they're trying to catch? Halfway through the race, Felipe throws his sunglasses toward his pit crew.
Sports director Richard Groenendaal gives Felipe Orts the final words of encouragement and instructions.
Felipe Orts and Daan Soete discuss the race.
And of course, after the race, the bike needs a good cleaning.