This would be his first time on the roster for a true top-tier World Tour race, and he was, without a doubt, incredibly excited.
But the pressure was also immense.
No matter how outstanding his performance had been in previous races, if he choked in these next two, both his standing in the team and his market value would undoubtedly plummet.
'After all, the competition is on a different level. Can I handle the incredibly difficult, relentless attacks from top-tier riders in a major one-day classic?'
This was the most direct way to measure whether he had truly become a top-tier rider.
Fortunately, Huang Chong wasn't a complete stranger to the cobblestone roads of Belgium.
He had trained here with the team during last year's winter camp. And while every ride left him feeling like his insides had been thoroughly rearranged, his superb bike-handling skills allowed him to adapt.
