There was a definite chill in the air as fans hurriedly made their way through the streets of Gent on the first cold but bright Saturday of March. Omloop Het Nieuwsblad marks the start of the European Classics season, one of the most exciting periods in the WorldTour race calendar. The men's race kicked off first just after 11 am, followed later on by the women's race.
Omloop begins next to the famous 't Kuipke Velodrome in Gent and takes place in an old aircraft hangar-style building next door. The vast curved ceiling lets in light, but it's still a little dingy in the far corners. Before long, the team buses and cars are pulling in, racking up the team bikes and making their final preparations as the riders sign on and prepare for the race.
