With nicknames like Hell of the North and Queen of the Classics, Paris-Roubaix is arguably the greatest one-day bicycle race in the world. The 2012 edition featured a route of nearly 260 kilometres, including 50 kilometres of cobblestones. James Startt was there to capture the drama in pictures.
The Hell Of The North
Nervous tension at the start of the 110th edition of Paris Roubaix
Defending champion, Johan Van Summeren
The heavy favourite; All eyes were on three-time Paris-Roubaix winner Tom Boonen
The first section of cobblestones, in Troisvilles
Many riders opted for heavy-duty wheels and double-wrapped handlebars 
Even though it had rained the day before, there was still plenty of dust kicked up over the cobbles. 
Fans waited with great anticipation in hopes of getting a glimpse of their favourite riders
In a bold move Boonen attacked 55 kilometres from the finish. 
Sebastien Turgot, of the Europcar team, was the surprise of the day. He finished second.
Gritting his teeth, his hands in the drops, Boonen powered through the legendary Carrefour de l’Arbre.
By winning four Paris-Roubaix races, Boonen tied the record held by Roger de Vlaeminck.
Latvian rider Aleksejs Saramotins collapsed, depleted both physically and emotionally after finishing 18th.
Frenchman Jean Lou Paiani was another fighter. He was in tears after coming in 30th place.
Raising the famed cobblestone trophy, Boonen celebrated his record-equaling 4th PR victory.
1997 winner Frederic Guesdon visits the stall which has a plaque with his name on it.
Special flags announced the 110th edition
