Cycling race returns to Serskamp after 10 years to boost youth competitions

Serskamp, Belgium, is set to host a cycling race on June 27, marking the return of the event after a decade-long hiatus. The initiative, spearheaded by the newly formed vzw Serskamp Koerse, is driven by a passion for the sport and a desire to combat the dwindling number of youth competitions in the region.

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What is a kermis without a race?

Thomas Smetryns, chairman of Serskamp Koerse, highlighted the alarming decline in races, noting that 137 competitions have vanished in Flanders over six years, with 101 of those in East Flanders. "What is a kermis without a race?" Smetryns asked, emphasizing the need to address the "dire shortage of youth races" and foster a love for cycling.

Cycling Vlaanderen has been advocating for more youth events, and Smetryns and his colleagues stepped up to the challenge. They acknowledge that many current organizers are aging and that younger individuals often lack the time, motivation, or willingness to take on the risks associated with organizing. As a group of four motivated young people, they aim to set an example.

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In 6 years time, 137 competitions have disappeared in Flanders, of which 101 in East Flanders.

The event will feature two races: a 40-kilometer fun ride for unlicensed participants and a 60-kilometer race for juniors. The junior race will cover 22 laps on a closed circuit near the town's fairgrounds. Notable participants may include Mauro Keppens, who placed third in the Tour of Flanders for juniors, and local rider Ian Kimpe. Discussions are also underway with Simon Van der Voort, the Belgian junior champion, and former rider Laurens De Vreese is expected to give the starting signal.

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Therefore, we are organizing the race: to tackle the dire shortage of youth races and out of love for the sport of cycling.