Flandrien

The heroes of the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix are tough and determined Flemings who specialise in riding on bad roads and in bad weather. Stephan Vanfleteren has been photographing cycling races in Belgium and its surrounding areas for more than 15 years, and this set of photos provides an intimate and emotional portrait of these legendary athletes, landscapes, and Flemish culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 132 pages
Publication date: 15 February 2021
Publisher: Cannibal/Hannibal Publishers

The heroes of the Tour of Flanders and the Paris-Roubaix are a breed apart, exhibiting remarkable toughness and determination on the road. These Flemings have perfected the art of navigating treacherous conditions, whether it's rough roads or adverse weather. This captivating set of photos offers an intimate and emotional glimpse into the lives of these legendary athletes, as well as the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Belgium.

Photographer Stephan Vanfleteren has been capturing the essence of cycling races in Belgium and its surrounding regions for over 15 years. His extensive collection, comprising more than 100 meticulously selected images, showcases the passion and dedication of these athletes, as well as the breathtaking beauty of the Belgian countryside.

The Tour of Flanders, one of the most prestigious cycling races in the world, attracts riders from all corners of the globe. The race, which takes place annually in late April or early May, covers a distance of approximately 250 kilometers and includes a series of challenging climbs and descents. The riders must endure long hours in the saddle, navigating through muddy roads and treacherous weather conditions.

The Paris-Roubaix, on the other hand, is a gruelling one-day race that takes place in late March or early April. The route includes 217 kilometers of cobbled roads, including the famous "Pave of the Cobbles" section in Roubaix. The race is known for its rough terrain and unpredictable weather, which can make it one of the most challenging races in the world.

The photos in this collection capture the intensity and drama of these races, as well as the camaraderie among the riders. They show the physical toll that the sport takes on the athletes, as well as the mental strength and resilience required to overcome the challenges that they face.

In addition to the portraits of the riders, the photos also showcase the stunning landscapes of Belgium. The country is known for its picturesque countryside, with rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque villages. The photos capture the beauty of the Belgian countryside, providing a backdrop for the intense competition that takes place on the road.

The Flemings, who are native to Belgium, have a deep connection to cycling and the Tour of Flanders in particular. The race has a rich history and is considered a symbol of the Flemish culture. The photos in this collection highlight the pride and tradition that the Flemings feel towards their sport and their country.

Overall, this collection of photos provides a unique and captivating perspective on the heroes of the Tour of Flanders and the Paris-Roubaix. It showcases the toughness, determination, and cultural heritage of these legendary athletes, as well as the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Belgium.

Stephan Vanfleteren's dedication to capturing the essence of cycling races in Belgium and its surrounding regions is evident in his extensive collection of photos. With more than 100 meticulously selected images, this collection offers a glimpse into the lives of these legendary athletes, the challenges they face, and the beauty of the Belgian countryside. Whether you are a cycling enthusiast or simply appreciate the power of human determination, this collection is sure to inspire and captivate you.

Weight: 286g
Dimension: 190 x 148 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789081623711