SD Worx – Protime’s Big Four (or Five/Six/Seven?)
The VolkerWessels Cycling Team, previously known as Parkhotel Valkenburg, introduced its team for the upcoming season during an event held at the theatre in Rijssen, the Netherlands, on February 5th. In an effort to balance the roster with a mix of youth and experience, the team welcomed two new signings, former WorldTour riders Sabrina Stultiens and Valerie Demey, both aged 30. Their inclusion aims to provide the squad with additional depth and expertise.
The recruitment of Stultiens and Demey is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the team’s competitive edge by adding experienced riders to its ranks. Their guidance is expected to be invaluable for the younger members of the team as they navigate the challenges of professional cycling.
With a total of 17 riders for this season, the team announced its partnership with the dutch construction company VolkerWessels as the new main title sponsor. This collaboration signifies a fresh start and ambitious goals for the future, building on the team’s historical success in developing notable talent within the cycling world.
The team’s alumni include several distinguished cyclists who have achieved significant success in their careers, such as Tour de France winner Demi Vollering, currently the number one ranked rider in the UCI standings, sprint superstar Lorena Wiebes, the reigning European Champion Mischa Bredewold and Riejanne Markus, the National Dutch Time Trial Champion. These accomplishments underscore the team’s reputation for fostering young talent and achieving competitive success.
Raymond Rol, the Sports Director of VolkerWessels Cycling Team, shared his perspective on the team’s strategy and its partnership with VolkerWessels. He highlighted the team’s ongoing commitment to nurturing young talent and expressed high expectations for the upcoming season.
The combination of emerging talents and seasoned professionals sets the stage for what could be a transformative year for the team. With the backing of VolkerWessels and a clear vision for the future, the team aims to surpass its previous achievements and make a significant impact on the professional cycling circuit.
Following the team presentation, the riders are scheduled to depart for a training camp in Calpe, Spain. This camp is crucial for the team’s preparation, focusing on enhancing teamwork and building stronger relationships among the riders before their first competitive outing of the season at the Volta Communitat Valenciana in Spain.