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Every spring, thousands of riders descend on Flanders, Northern Belgium to test themselves against one of cycling’s most iconic Spring Classics courses, featuring cobbled climbs, sharp bergs, and the same roads the pros will race a day later. Among them this year was Marcin, a dedicated cyclist and part of the team at Le Col HQ. We caught up with him fresh off the ride to get a firsthand look at what it’s really like to take on the legendary Ronde van Vlaanderen. Here's how the day unfolded.

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Why did you want to do the race? 

I started riding the iconic cobbled classics in 2021, and my natural choice at the time was Paris–Roubaix. Natural, because I think I’m built more for flat and rough cobbled rides, which suits the Paris–Roubaix profile well. Ronde van Vlaanderen, on the other hand, was a race I’d always been afraid of because of the distance (227km), the elevation (2,100m), and those demanding cobbled climbs in the final 60km, often made even tougher by the brutal early spring weather. Sure, you can ride the same route in summer, but it’s just not the same. In spring, the weather becomes your main rival. But because of my competitive nature, the unique Flemish atmosphere, the history of the race, and the legendary names on the winner’s list, I finally decided to take it on last year for the first time.

What did it mean to you to take part?

For me, it was mainly about testing myself on an iconic, demanding course. It was my main goal for 2024 but unfortunately, I crashed and fractured my ribs. I still managed to finish the ride, though. So this year meant even more. Coming back stronger and proving to myself that I could succeed after such a tough lesson that was everything. And I did it.

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What was the race day experience like?

Unlike last year’s wet and cold edition, this time the weather treated us well: dry, sunny, and only a light north-easterly wind. I felt straight away that it could be a good day. I decided to go full gas from the start taking a bit of a gamble, knowing the real test would begin at 175km with the legendary Koppenberg. That risk paid off. I started feeling stronger as the race went on. From the Muur van Geraardsbergen at 135km onwards, I just knew it was going to be a great ride. By the time I reached the final two climbs Kwaremont and Paterberg I was ready to leave everything out there. And I did. Honestly, it was one of my best days ever on the bike. I’ll never forget it. 

Did it all go to plan as you expected?

Yes it actually went even better than expected. The plan was simple: stay out of trouble, avoid any technical issues, and ride strong and consistent. Huge credit also goes to my friend Ben, who was supposed to ride the race with me but sadly broke his collarbone a few weeks before. Instead of pulling out entirely, he followed me along the course in his car, meeting me several times to make sure I had everything I needed to stick to our plan. That meant a lot. 

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What would you recommend for someone wanting to take part in the future?

Once you set a goal like this, it becomes great motivation to train hard over winter which is a challenge in itself. To really enjoy the race (rather than just survive it), I’d say there are a few key things: consistent training, mental readiness for tough conditions, the right kit for whatever the weather throws at you on race day, and a bike that’s properly prepared. 

How are you feeling about Paris-Roubaix and how do you think the two races will compare?

Paris–Roubaix will always be my favourite race. Its brutality, the unpredictable nature of the course, and the incredible atmosphere make it really special. I just love it. This year will be my fourth time riding it. I did the epic, muddy edition in 2021, the cold one in 2023, and last year’s while riding with fractured ribs after crashing in RVV (not recommended). This time, it looks like it’ll be dry and warm. I feel like I have the experience, knowledge and ability to ride it well but I also have huge respect for this race. It’s dangerous and unpredictable. There’s a reason they call it the “Hell of the North.” Some native Flandrians I’ve spoken to say that while they love RVV, Paris–Roubaix is actually the tougher race. The biggest difference is the cobbles: in Flanders, they’re rough, but nothing like the savagery of Arenberg Forest or Carrefour de l’Arbre. You won’t find any big climbs in Paris–Roubaix, but those brutal sectors can destroy a bike or a rider.  

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