Sylvain Chavanel of Cofidis won the 48th Brabantse Pijl after an impressive performance in wet weather conditions.

The 28-year-old Frenchman attacked on the climb up the Bruineput with 28km remaining, and held out to cross the finishing line first in Beersel.

The triumph ended Oscair Freire's domination of the race after the triple world champion had won on the Alsemberg three times in a row since 2005.

"Just like Wednesday [when he won in Dwars door Vlaanderen] I didn't know this course, as these are all races in which I've never competed, but apparently they suit me quite well," Chavanel told Sporza TV.

"I've got a great week behind me and I hope that I'll be able to extend this form until the Tour of Flanders next week.

"Do note that I'm not the top favourite although I won Dwars door Vlaanderen and the Brabantse Pijl, as the Tour of Flanders is much more difficult and much longer."

The Frenchman remained modesty in victory, saying: "I can't help that I can stand the poor weather conditions pretty well. It rained all day and it was stone-cold, but if you win then that is easily forgotten."

Result

1. Sylvain Chavanel (Cofidis) 4.44.38

2. Philippe Gilbert (Francaise des Jeux) + 0.29

3. Juan A. Flecha (Rabobank) + 0.37

4. Giovanni Visconti (Quick Step) + 0.38

5. Frederik Willems (Liquigas) + 0.40

Tom Williams / Eurosport