The racing got saucy. Sealent sprayed. Competitors kicked.

After Arenberg, riders faces became contorted with pain as they passed over the cobbles that erupt out of the road. Dirt covered everyone, spit and snot flew, and bloodied body parts were commonplace.

Attacks flew like arrows from the lead groups. Dylan van Baarle made his stick, kept upright, and rode away from a select group.

Dylan van Baarle entered into the velodrome alone and raised his arms in victory in front of throngs of adoring fans. Wout van Aert sprinted to be the best of the rest.

Riders reached the finish line, washed the mud and blood in the famous Roubaix velodrome showers, and hugged family. The last man across the finish line was Bas Tietema, his grit and determination was emblematic of the race.