on the final run-in to the finish in Wevelgem. The 2017 race saw the addition of three so-called Plugstreets in Ploegsteert Wood, semi-paved gravel roads at the Ploegsteert Memorial to the Missing, to commemorate the Christmas truce of 1914. The three Plugstreets were integrated between the two Kemmel climbs, with a total distance of . The COVID-19 pandemic led to the change of calendar and that year's edition was postponed for the 11th of October. Winners Multiple winners Riders in italics are still active Wins per country Women's race Since 2012 a women's race of Gent–Wevelgem is held, on the same day as the men's event but over a shorter course. Unlike the men's race, the start is in Ypres and the course does not cover the hills in Northern France. The inaugural women's edition was won by British rider Lizzie Armitstead after a 40-km solo breakaway. Since 2016 the race is included in the UCI Women's World Tour, cycling's top-tier female elite competition. Wins per country Cyclosportive Since 2009, a cyclosportive is organized on the day before the professional event. There are four distances, ranging from 60 km to 215 km. All courses start and finish in Wevelgem, at the finishing location of the professional event. Most routes pass through the Menin Gate in Ypres, flirt with the French border, tackle the Kemmelberg before turning back towards Wevelgem. There are 5.000 participants on average; 40% of which are non-Belgians. Notes References External links Recurring sporting events established in 1934 1934 establishments in Belgium UCI ProTour races Classic cycle races Cycle races in Belgium UCI World Tour races Annual sporting events in Belgium Spring (season) events in Belgium Super Prestige Pernod races