Silly Season in the World of Endurance Cycling

Silly season, recognized by Formula 1 enthusiasts, denotes the post-season period filled with driver-team speculations. In cycling, though less acknowledged, the phenomenon mirrors notably. Major transfers like Dylan van Baarle and Wilco Kelderman to Jumbo-Visma echo its influence. Even within endurance cycling, akin to relay races on circuits, such transitions reverberate.

November 2021 marked a peculiar phase for us. Founded in late 2018, our team, Noord-Holland’s Finest Endurance Cycling, aimed at specializing in endurance cycling. After a promising 2019 debut, plans were in motion. However, the pandemic disrupted everything. Race after race got canceled, leaving us without circuit miles in both 2020 and 2021. After two years of hardship, questions lingered.

Identifying potential candidates posed a challenge. Edgar Bohte, known for his attacking style, joined us swiftly. Daniel Abraham Gebru, a Paralympic champion, proved to be an unexpected but valuable addition. Maick Van Bugnum, a reserve rider since inception, expressed eagerness for a permanent spot, despite job uncertainties.

Let’s get started

After months of anticipation, June saw us at the start of Cycling Zandvoort. Marcel de Boer, Edgar Bohte, Daniel Abraham Gebru, and myself competed, finally racing on a circuit again. The weather favored us, and our performance was commendable, finishing fifth.

Six weeks later, the next challenge awaited us: Rad am Ring, a 24-hour race on the legendary Nordschleife of the Nürburgring. Despite Maick’s unavailability, we found a suitable replacement in Kenny Nijssen. With aspirations for a top 15 finish, we pushed forward, with Kenny being our “joker.”

Our efforts paid off as we secured the 10th place overall and the 5th place in our age category, reminiscing about skater Hein Otterspeer’s words. Now, as we approach the silly season of 2022, uncertainties loom. Yet, our determination remains unwavering.

In 2023, we plan to return to Zandvoort and debut at the Mussara 24h race in Barcelona. Are you up for the challenge? Contact us at +31683590282 or [email protected].

Erik Van der Wel Captain Noord-Holland’s Finest Endurance Cycling