Dutch Gravel Worlds Team Reserves Wildcard Spot for Mathieu van der Poel
Dutch rider Mathieu Van Der Poel recently made headlines during the first edition of the UCI Gravel World Championships, where he outshone Belgian rider Greg Van Avermaet. The gravel racing community was abuzz with excitement as Van Der Poel showcased his skills and talent on the gravel roads.
An early adopter of alternative gravel racing, Laurens ten Dam is gearing up for his second appearance at the UCI Gravel World Championships representing the Netherlands. This time around, he will be making history as both a rider and a coach, as he was appointed as the national coach for the Dutch gravel programme earlier this spring.
Known as the ‘godfather’ of gravel racing, the 43-year-old continues to compete at a high level and inspire his peers in the sport. With four appearances at Unbound Gravel 200 under his belt, he has finished fourth or better three times, showcasing his prowess on the gravel. Additionally, he recently set a new record in the non-stop division of Transcordilleras in Colombia, further solidifying his status as a gravel racing legend.
Subheadings:
1. Mathieu van der Poel Secures Wildcard Spot for Dutch Gravel Worlds Team
2. Laurens ten Dam: A Pioneer in Gravel Racing
3. The Growing Popularity of Gravel Racing
As the Dutch Gravel Worlds Team prepares for the upcoming championships, they have reserved a wildcard spot for Mathieu van der Poel, recognizing his exceptional talent and potential in the gravel racing scene. Van der Poel’s performance at the UCI Gravel World Championships has proven that he is a force to be reckoned with and a valuable asset to the Dutch team.
Meanwhile, Laurens ten Dam’s appointment as the national coach for the Dutch gravel programme marks a significant milestone in his career. His experience and expertise in gravel racing make him the perfect candidate to lead and mentor the Dutch team, guiding them to success in the world of gravel racing.
Gravel racing has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, attracting cyclists from all backgrounds and disciplines. The unique challenge of navigating unpaved roads and tackling varying terrain has captivated riders around the world, leading to a growing community of gravel enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Dutch Gravel Worlds Team is gearing up for an exciting season ahead, with Mathieu van der Poel leading the charge and Laurens ten Dam guiding the team to success. The growing popularity of gravel racing is a testament to the sport’s appeal and the thrill of riding off the beaten path. As the gravel racing scene continues to evolve, we can expect to see more riders like Van der Poel and ten Dam making their mark on the gravel roads.