Johan Le Bon who was taken out of contention by a puncture in the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, had fun in the GP Samyn won by Belgian Kris Boeckmans (Lotto-Soudal). Appointed as leader of the FDJ team, he was very active in the finale before taking 18th place.
"Yes, we have reason to be satisfied after a race that was not like the previous editions with the addition of a difficult cobbled section," sports director Franck Pineau says. "Pierre-Henri Lecuisinier confirmed his recent encouraging performances by keeping up with the best in a tough race. Marc Sarreau, recovering from health problems, demonstrated his ability in these races that he really likes. He was only dropped from the leading group 5 kilometers from the finish. At 20 years of age, he goes well on the cobbles and I think he has the qualities to be a part of our classics group. And then there was Johan who took his responsibilities."
11 kilometers from the finish, Le Bon went into action. Having attacked from the bunch, he was caught by a group including riders like StijnVandenbergh (Etixx-Quick Step). Le Bon attacked on his own but realized that it was impossible to stay away.
Finally, everything was decided on a cobbled section of 750 meters at the entrance of Fayt-le-Franc and a group of 7 riders got clear, with Boeckmans taking the win. Le Bon did not get into the top 20 but he now has the certainty of having good legs.
Olivier Le Gac was less fortunate as he was victim of a crash that prevented him from staying with the best. He has hurt his tibia and yesterday he was treated by the team doctor before he takes to the start of the Driedaagse van West-Vlaanderen on Friay.
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