Stephen Williams becomes first British rider to win the Flèche Wallonne. He tamed rivals and snow
HUY, Belgium (AP) — Stephen Williams became the first British winner of the Flèche Wallonne classic race on Wednesday after battling tough weather conditions including snow to cross first atop the Mur de Huy.
After nearly 200 kilometers (124 miles) of racing, Williams attacked in the Mur de Huy — a 1.3-kilometer (0.8-mile) ascent with an average gradient of 9.6% with sections as steep as 19% that generally decides the outcome of the race.
The 27-year-old Williams made his move with about 250 meters left to claim the biggest win of his career.
“I’m exhausted. I’m lost for words, quite emotional really,” Williams said. “It’s a really hard sport, so to win bike races is hard, especially here in these classics. It’s wonderful to be the first British winner of this race. I’ve been watching this race for a number of years and I know the class and the prestige of this race. To come to the Ardennes and win La Flèche is really special.”