Tonight (Australian-time) is the night of the legendary one day race, Paris-Roubaix. Keeping pace with the best on Paris-Roubaix is not within the reach of just any old rider. The Hell of the North is a race for specialists. It is only tamed by the hard, painless, powerful and skillful, who have pinpointed the event as one of their objectives for the season.

Of course, it wont be a day out for everyone…

Look Out For…

Of course any one of the 27 pave (cobblestoned) sectors of the race are great. The race’s official website has a full preview of each. One of the most famous is the 2.4km long Trouée d’Arenberg at about “only” 100km to go. Coincidentally, the live race coverage tends to start at about then. Typically one of the top 20 riders to come out of that section will be the winner.

Each section has a rating out of 5 for difficulty. Arenberg you ask? Why that’s naturally!

And if you’ve ever had the “pleasure” of riding over a section of pave, you know how hard it can be. And if you haven’t… well you’re missing out!

The race is so high intense even when watching it on TV you feel like there’s no time to get yourself top-up of frites (French-fries) and Westmalle (Belgian beer). Little wonder it’s so popular!

Predictions anyone?

You just need to check out Twitter to see that everyone has their own ideas. Of course Fabian Cancellara and Tom Boonen remain the outright favourites, but if you like to pick a roughie why not Johan van Summeren. The boy’s got talent, a history of top ten’s and of course he is Belgian – based on history being Belgian is a very important factor in winning this race!

This year the lanky 6ft 5in rider is kitted out by Garmin-Transitions… Keep your eyes and ears open for him.

2010 Paris-Roubaix Preview Video

And in case you can’t wait, here’s a preview of the race to get your blood pumping…

The race will be covered live in Australia from 10pm AEST on SBS. Also check out Steephill.tv for some great live coverage – or at least links to those who do! Enjoy!