Re: Julian Alaphilippe
His winning in the Ardennes would require beating Valverde, which currently is highly unlikely unless Valverde makes a mistake. Actually Valverde was 26, because it was in 2006 NOT 2005 when he was his first Ardennes double (also first time he won either Fleche Wallone or LBL). However, yes he was 25 because his birthday is right after they race LBL.
The Barb said:He can definitely win (and perhaps in a year or two dominate) in the Ardennes, although with his descending skills I think ultimately Lombardia will be his best Classic.
I'm still smarting from 2015 Liege Bastogne Liege when I placed, about two weeks from the race, $40 on him at 125-1 (finished second to Valverde).
He's still only 25yo, which is the same age as Valverde when he won his first Ardennes race in 2005, and I think I'm right in saying only Andy Schleck has won Liege younger since. His time will come.
His winning in the Ardennes would require beating Valverde, which currently is highly unlikely unless Valverde makes a mistake. Actually Valverde was 26, because it was in 2006 NOT 2005 when he was his first Ardennes double (also first time he won either Fleche Wallone or LBL). However, yes he was 25 because his birthday is right after they race LBL.