Denise Betsema will begin a new chapter in her cyclo-cross career on Saturday as she makes her debut for De Ceuster-Bouwpunt at the Exact Cross in Meulebeke. The 32-year-old from Texel joins the Belgian team after six seasons with Pauwels Sauzen-Cibel Clementines, where she established herself as one of the leading riders in the women’s field.
The team has presented Betsema as co-leader alongside Laura Verdonschot, who is currently recovering from injury. “I didn’t expect it myself, but I’m incredibly happy that I can add such a beautiful new chapter to my career,” Betsema said ahead of her first race with the team.
Renewed motivation after difficult seasons
The past two winters proved challenging for Betsema as she struggled to regain her top form. Last season her preparation was heavily disrupted by a training crash that led to surgery just before the opening races. “My build-up to this season went much better than in the last two years,” she explained. “At the end of the summer in 2023, I had a collision followed by an operation, which completely disrupted everything. That wasn’t the case this year, so I’m starting the season with a lot more confidence. I also think I’m now in the right team, which only strengthens that feeling.”
A new environment focused on women’s cycling
After several seasons with Pauwels Sauzen, Betsema was without a team earlier this year before reaching an agreement with De Ceuster-Bouwpunt, which also features Laura Verdonschot and Jinse Peeters. “Even though I was without a team, I never thought about stopping with cyclo-cross,” she said. “The question was simply how I would shape the new season. This new team believes in me and has given me a wonderful opportunity. It’s also the first time I’ve joined a team that focuses entirely on women’s cycling. That’s very special, and it creates a positive dynamic that really suits me.”
A training camp and equipment familiarisation helped smooth the transition. “Everything is well arranged. We ride Ridley bikes, which I already know well. It feels like all the pieces fit together here. Last year I still had knee problems, which caused my results to fluctuate. Of course, winning is still the ambition,” she said with a smile. “Podium places should be possible, and I’ll be especially happy with consistent results. The sand races suit me very well, and the Koppenbergcross is one I’m really looking forward to, where I’ve already finished second a few times.”
Experience and achievements
Betsema brings significant experience and a proven record of success to her new team. She has three World Cup race victories to her name, bronze medals at both the 2021 World Championships in Oostende and the 2018 European Championships in Rosmalen, and has long been regarded as one of the most technically skilled riders in the women’s cyclocross peloton.
