Nestled in the rugged Andes mountains of Colombia, Annemiek van Vleuten embarks on a journey that transcends mere competition. For three successive winters, her presence graced the country’s roads, a ritual of preparation for the early road season with the Movistar Team. However, this year, her wheels spin to a different beat as she takes on the formidable challenge of the eight-day Transcordilleras.

This race is not your average gravel event; it’s a proving ground for retired WorldTour professionals, a relentless test of endurance amid the equatorial terrain of South America. While many seasoned riders are focused on reaching summits and crossing finish lines, Van Vleuten stands out with her thirst for adventure, placing it above the drive for victory.

Annemiek van Vleuten begins a new chapter in cycling

With the pressures of competition finally falling off her shoulders after 16 years, she now pedals ahead into new horizons. The Transcordilleras is no ordinary race but a test of grit, stamina, and dedication of a cyclist. Stretched over a span of eight days, the formidable gravel race track goes over three imposing mountain ranges along the South America equator.

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“I’m not racing for a result, just for the adventure, and just to finish it, or maybe not,” she laughed as she told the media about her time in Colombia this year. “If I feel like finishing, I will finish. So I like the concept.”

Annemiek van Vleuten decided to race in the supported event. That means she will not have a number at the back of her jersey, essentially making it a cycling vacation, rather than a race. With her in this, is her partner and a former Rabobank-Liv Cycling teammate, Iris Slappendel, who joined the bandwagon at the last minute.

The gravel race is all set to begin on Sunday, but for Annemiek van Vleuten and the group, there will be a ‘lazy version’ of the race. It includes the arrangement of hotels, cleaning and repairing of bikes. Along with that, they will enjoy the luxury of a relaxed expedition on mixed terrains.

A more peaceful world after retirement for Annemiek van Vleuten

For someone who played and competed at the highest level for 16 years, it is now time to take a step back. The highs and lows in a sports person’s career often make or break them. Rarely do they get to enjoy the experience of the sport, but van Vleuten is now right where she needs to be.

“I did not really train or prepare for it. Actually, I didn’t train at all. The last four weeks before I came here to Colombia, I was with my mother, having a nice holiday together. I did not touch my bike for four weeks. So I could feel that when I got here and started to ride the bike again.”

It is evident that she is in a completely different state of mind now, unshackled from the burdens of competition. She is now embracing her spirit for adventure and joy, along with her close ones.