De Ronde van Oeste Portlandia

Portlander's have always been known as a odd bunch. Cycling is part of the mainstream in this city. The Hawthorne bridge, which is about 100 feet from where I'm siting, has daily bike commutes of a jaw dropping 5,000 riders. The De Ronde van Oeste Portlandia is an event that's gaining a place on Portland's cycling calendar. Held for the first time a few years ago the event has grown in legend. The climbs are really steep and it takes its name from the Tour of Flanders in Belgium. If you're ever in Portland in the early part of April be sure to check out this great event.

March 2009 Dave Campbell's Trivia

SEASON OPENING CLASSIC: Het Nieuwsblad



Q1. On February 28, Thor Hushovd (Cervelo Test Team) became the first Norwegian to win this coveted Belgian Semi-Classic. He is only the NINTH Non-Belgian winner in the race’s 64 year history. Which “other nation” has been most successful in the 200 km cobbled “hard man’s” race?

Q2: What is the best result ever in this race by an ENGLISH Speaking rider?


Q3. Hushovd is also a past winner of the Belgian spring classic Ghent-Wevelgem. With the cobbles, the climate, the climbs, and the country (Belgium) Het Nieuwsblad (or Het Volk or Ghent-Ghent) would likely see MANY riders win both. And yet, it has been awhile! Who was the last rider who triumphed at Het Volk also had a Ghent-Wevelgem in his palmares?