The Kermesse

In this third installment of what is becoming the pdotproductions mini film fest I take you back to the roots of my film making. "The Kermesse" was produced in 2005 on my first trip to Belgium. This was my first film and represents the discovery of the video capabilities of my camera and what a simple Windows program can do for editing. As a result this production is somewhat unrefined and lacks quality in a many aspects, but I hope you can still enjoy it.
"The Kermesse" is an exploration of the roots of Belgian bicycle racing. The race I documented takes place on a Wednesday evening in a tiny village in the Flemish countryside. This race is part of a racing series known as the VWF, or Flemish Bicycle Federation. The closest comparison to Canadian racing would be a cross between Cat 1/2 ABA racing and a midweek series. This racing league is independent of the UCI in terms of licensing and attracts riders of all levels in its various categories. From April to October these riders race between 2-3 times per week and by the end of the season many have competed in over 80 races. Ex professional cyclists, young career types, factory workers and students alike come together to cultivate the true spirit of competitive cycling. Witnessing the the complete infusion of cycling into the Belgian way of life is a beautiful thing, and this type of racing represents the link of the common man to the glories of the famed cobbled classics.
This film follows the drama of the "A" group race which proves to be intensely competitive. Watch for characteristic Belgian aggressive tactics and a blistering pace from start to finish.