Thibau Nys had a special Trek helmet made as a mark of respect to his father Sven as the pair marked a special anniversary.
Nys took victory at the opening World Cup of the season in Tábor, almost 10 years to the day that Sven Nys won the last cyclocross World Cup of his career in Koksijde.
Following his father’s example, Nys was commanding on his way to a solo victory in Tabor after going clear on the second lap as his competitors faltered in the icy conditions, before giving his dad a hug after the finish.
“I had a very good day,” said Nys following his victory. “With that beautiful helmet too.
“It was 10 years ago, that dad won his last World Cup. So it all went very fast. To ride the whole cross in this jersey today, with such a helmet. That’s great. I enjoyed it immensely.”
“It’s exactly like seeing myself ride. Although, unfortunately, it was already 15 years ago. I find it quite special. It does affect a person when he once again refers to the past.”
However, Nys will have to wear the World Cup leader’s jersey at the next round in Flamanville next weekend.
The 23-year-old won Gran Premio Miguel Indurain and placed fifth in Liège-Bastogne-Liège after last season’s ‘cross calendar and then completed his maiden Tour de France in the summer.
His coach Paul Van Den Bosch told Sporza that the young Belgian will again target the Spring Classics after an intense winter with 22 ‘cross races planned.
“Thibau, just like…
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