SUNADA’S VIEW: Amstel Gold Lookback
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Next up on the Classics schedule is the 49th running of Amstel Gold. If you look back over the last several years, this race generally favors guys who can go uphill. Not pure climbers per-se but you have to be able to turn it up on some biting pitches. Last year, Roman Kreuziger took the top step and is the only rider from the Czech Republic to win Amstel since its inception in 1966. Naturally, the Dutch have dominated the top podium spot since the beginning with 17 victories. Belgium is next with 11, and Italy rounds out the top 3 with 6 victories. What’s interesting is that the last time a Dutch rider took victory was 2001 with Eric Dekker. Needless to say, they are due! Dutch legend Jan Raas owns the most victories with 5 (1977-1980, 1982). The great Eddy Merckx is next with 2 along with 3 others including Philippe Gilbert (2011-2011).
2013 Amstel Gold race.