Even though it was undeniable experience what eventually triumphed as Tom Boonen took his record third victory at Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne on Sunday, the Topsport Vlaanderen-Baloise rider Yves Lampaert was just another young cyclist alongside Moreno Hofland to leave a very positive impression when the race came to its conclusion.

The 22-year old Belgian was the sole Topsport Vlaanderen-Baloise rider to join the elite group after Omega Pharma-Quick Step distanced the peloton by significantly upping the pace in the crosswinds during the Oude Kwaremont ascent. Still, Lampaert contributed to the work in the breakaway consisting of one Garmin-Sharp, three Belkin and five OPQS riders- including Tom Boonen, hoping to play his own cards in the final sprint.

"I thought the rest of the peloton was on our wheel, but during the descent I looked back and noticed there was a sizeable gap. We turned around and the co-operation was optimal. I felt good and did my turns in front like I should. Team director Walter Planckaert told me to do nothing but my share of the work and keep an eye on Boonen," Lampaert told Cyclingnews.

The 22-year old Belgian eventually finished fourth and expressed satisfaction with his performance throughout the whole race and disappointment after several tactical mistakes prevented him from finishing on the podium.

"I felt good today and the result reflects that. What matters is the result at the finish. I'm a bit disappointed because I felt the podium was possible. I was extremely nervous but at a certain moment you have to get over it and think about the finish. In the end I'm satisfied, finishing fourth amongst top riders like Boonen and Vanmarcke."

"I made a tactical mistake in the end. Vandenbergh did an attack at 1800 meters and Vanmarcke reacted. I jumped on their heels but instead of dropping back and keeping an overview after that I remained in second place. We arrived at 500 meters from the line and Vansummeren went on the left. Again I made a tactical error to let a Belkin-rider react. Instead, I reacted myself and ended up riding with my nose in the wind," Lampaert said.

"The 3-days of West-Flanders is my next race and that should suit me as well. I believe that I can deliver a good performance there as well. Hopefully I can get more chances like today in the future."