What a week

Last Monday, Rose Lineham rode her favourite race of the year. The short but challenging course in category 5 brought her much joy. “It was a lovely short lap with lots of competition,” Rose says enthusiastically. The intensity of the race, combined with the sociability among the participants, made it an unforgettable experience.

Despite the tough climb on the VAM-berg, Rose is looking forward to next year. “The VAM was tough, but that’s exactly what makes it so much fun. I will definitely come back next year for the competition and the challenge,” Rose said. Her determination and love for the sport are evident.

Fenny Coppelmans, a familiar face in the cycling world, rode her last race this year in the junior women. With nine participations, starting with the Fat Tyre Races and now finishing with the junior women, she has built an impressive cycling career.

One of her most memorable moments was during a category 1 classic, i.e. at the very beginning. Fenny was ten seconds ahead of the peloton, but had to stop at the top of the viaduct to catch her breath. “It was a tough race, but I look back on it with pride,” she says.

This year, the time trial was her favourite race. “There I came in fourth, which was really a highlight,” says Fenny with a smile. The VAM-berg, on the other hand, is not her favourite part. “You can take that one out,” she admits with a laugh.

What Fenny appreciates most about the Jeugdtour is the atmosphere. “The atmosphere at the campsite and around the races is always great. You learn a lot in the youth races, especially riding in a big peloton. In addition, you meet people from different countries, which is a unique experience,” she explains. These social and learning aspects have motivated her to come back year after year.

Han Lu (pictured right) from category 1 actually did not know what to expect at the beginning of the week. By the end of the week, the seven-year-old is already a lot more talkative and talks enthusiastically about his first Jeugdtour “I liked the time trial the most,” says the rider from England. As such, it was the first time he rode against the clock. “I did find the longest race [on Tuesday] difficult but I also only have a small bike.”

Han promises to grow a little extra for his bigger bike and then return next year in category two. He is already looking forward to the time trial. “That one will be even longer then,” he concludes with gleaming eyes.

By Anniek Zwiers