At the European Cyclo-Cross Championships in Huijbergen, the riders will face a novelty that has been inspired by mountain biking. At the "chicken run", they can choose a dangerous, fast descent or a slower alternative.

For the inaugural elite men’s race at the European Cyclo-Cross Championships, a novelty has immediately been introduced: the Chicken Run.

In the first part of the circuit, a tree in the middle of the road will divide the field. The brave riders can jump over a tree root and then plummet to dive down a descent. For those who prefer to avoid large risks, there is the safer route which is slower.

The term "Chicken Run" was introduced by former rider Erwin Vervecken. "It's a nice point for the spectators," the former world champion told Het Nieuwsblad. "I saw Sanne Cant have some doubt in training. If you go fast and jump: No problem. But if you have too much speed, it is somewhat risky.”

Rider Tom Meeusen lives a stone's throw from the course. "The obstacle is in the beginning of the circuit," said the rider from Telenet-Fidea. "It's different when such a point is at the back end of the course."

"So the alternative section is not decisive. It's all about technique and daring."  Meeusen makes it clear that he has only seen the Chicken Run on video.