The most South West province of Holland, Zeeland, gave home to the more stage race of last weekend. Germans probably know Zeeland, because during summer a lot of German tourists can be found there. Other foreigners maybe know Zeeland because of the North Sea Flood in 1953 (if they are interested in history). A combination of storm and spring tide resulted in a flood with water levels up to 5 to 6 meters above sea level! This flood has killed 1835 people in Holland.

Why do I write this down, you must think? Well, last weekend during the race I had to face two elements that are closely related to this North Sea Flood. Wind and the Oosterschelde barrier (one of the Delta works)! It was fighting against the wind, strong tough wind! Especially when passing the barriers like the Oosterschelde barrier and the Zeelandbrug. The Oosterschelde barrier is build to make sure that a flood like the one in 1953 will not happen in the future. It is an impressive structure.

Nature is strong, hopefully the Delta works can avoid disasters like the North Sea Flood. Hail, wind and rain, we got it all last weekend. I love it and I hate it. The wind and hail makes me feel alive! But in the mean time I realize the risk of falling because of the slippery wet roads. Every race I start with a wish, let everyone finish safely!

  
Photos: www.cyclopics.nl , www.wielrenneninzeeland.nl