Tom Boonen (Omega Pharma-Quick Step) was unable to capture his sixth win at the E3-Harelbeke today, partly because he nearly hit the bunk on the demanding Oude Kwaremont. At the end of the day, though, Boonen was pleased with his performance and optimistic about his chances in the forthcoming Belgian spring classics.

“From the Taaienberg on we were ahead with that group and there was a lot of wind," Boonen said. "We really had to push to get a gap and I didn’t have the luxury of feeling comfortable enough to eat. Then on the Kwaremont, the light went out for a few minutes. I had a very tough moment on the Kwaremont. I thought it was the end of the race for me. But after that I took some gels and a bottle, and recovered well after that. But of course, the other guys in the chase, they were gone. In normal conditions I would never drop from that situation. But today, I was already happy to be there. It was the first final I did for this season. It was a nice race for a start. I think at the end I am very happy with the results and also the feelings in the race. I think it shows I don’t have to worry that much."

Boonen's next race will be Gent-Wevelgem on Sunday. You can follow the live action here on Cyclingquotes.com