The Belkin Pro Cycling Team is determined to make a good end to the European cycling season. On Sunday, Paris-Tours awaits and Sports Director Erik Dekker, who won the French one-day race in 2004, is full of confidence. 

“We’ll start with eight super fit riders who’re all really motivated,” said Dekker. “We have a good team, a strong collective and we want to end the season with a bang.” 

Dekker knows the character of the race is still the same as in 2004 when he narrowly managed to beat the peloton after a long flight. “It can go either way in Paris-Tours. Several scenarios are possible. I think we have guys who are well able to deal with that. When I won, I felt really strong and just went for it. That’s something I would like to say to the boys.” 

Bram Tankink was part of the break alongside Dekker in 2004. On Sunday he will be at the start again. The Dutchman believes in a good outcome. “As a team we proved that we’re still motivated. We won several races that are comparable to Paris-Tours. We have a strong team and can definitely mix in for the win on Sunday.” 

Belkin line-up for Paris-Tours:

Jetse Bol, Lars Boom, Rick Flens, Graeme Brown, Bram Tankink, Maarten Tjallingii, Sep Vanmarcke and Maarten Wynants.