BELGIUM: In cycling, Belgium is known for cobblestones and hills. When combining those two, races can get awfully tough. Luckily, the race organizers in Belgium decided only to use the cobblestone paves when they announced the newest race in the Top Division: Houthalen - Koersel.
  The race will contain battles on the cobbles and was added to the calender due to the missing amounts of cobblestone races. It follows the standards of races

in the Top Division with a prize of 18.000$ for the winner as well as 180 points for the global ranks.
  Endurance, strength, good equipment and luck are the keys to the victory in this new race where the typical rider will face tough struggles.
  
  High hopes
  As with any other race, the race organizer is hoping that the new challenging route will bring many of the stars to the race.