Kortrijk cyclist completes 525km for brain cancer research after dramatic crash

Victor Desmet, a 26-year-old sports physiotherapist from Kortrijk, has completed the grueling Ultimate Flanders 525, a 525-kilometer cycling race featuring challenging Flemish hills, cobblestone sections, and nearly 6,000 meters of elevation gain. His arduous journey was undertaken to raise funds for the 'Ride for Mike' initiative, which supports research into brain cancer.

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The last 60 kilometers seemed endless.

Desmet's ride was not without incident. Approximately 70 kilometers into the race, he crashed after encountering a barrier in the dark, resulting in abrasions and significant pain. Despite this early setback, he persevered, continuing through iconic climbs like the Muur van Geraardsbergen and navigating the Flemish Ardennes.

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After about 70 kilometers, there was a barrier in a corner in the dark. I literally flew over it and did a somersault.

The physical toll of the race was immense, with Desmet describing a novel kind of pain that set in as the day progressed. At times, his focus narrowed to simply conquering each successive climb. The challenge was undertaken in memory of Mike Naessens, a friend of Desmet's parents who died three years ago from an aggressive brain tumor. 'Ride for Mike' aims to continue Naessens' spirit of bringing people together and seeking positivity.

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From here, it's familiar territory.

Beyond fundraising, Desmet emphasized the importance of connecting people through the event, mirroring Naessens' own ability to foster community. After approximately 20 hours of cycling, Desmet reached his finish line at the Menin Gate in Ypres, completing a feat of endurance for a cause close to his heart.

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As the day progressed, I started to feel a pain I hadn't known before. At one point, I no longer thought about the distance or the goal. I just thought from hill to hill.