SD Worx has confirmed the signings of Femke Markus and Mischa Bredewold for 2 seasons each. They both join a pathway that has seen Demi Vollering achieve success at SD Worx after breaking through at the Parkhotel Valkenburg team. In 2023, that will also include Lorena Wiebes, although she went via Team DSM along the way as well. Despite Parkhotel Valkenburg sponsoring both their named team and Jumbo Visma Women, SD Worx also has close cooperation with the team and seems to be where their talent ultimately goes.
“Parkhotel Valkenburg offers young girls a sophisticated program where they can develop well. We have close contact with Rol about the steps these mostly young girls take. When they are ready to take a step up, Rol informs us. The past has shown that these riders can then take the next important step with us.
In one or two years, we will have a new generation in the Netherlands that will set the tone. Mischa Bredewold can be part of that new generation. She has made good steps in recent years and I think she can continue that progression in our team.
Femke certainly has the potential to grow further within the team”
Danny Stam, SD Worx manager
The pair of Parkhotel Valkenburg riders leave on good terms and the links between SD Worx and that team are strengthened. The Limburg team have a number of talents in their line-up, including wearer of the polka dot jersey at this year’s Tour de France Femmes, Femke Gerritse. Her destination for 2023 is unconfirmed at the moment.
“The fact that four of ‘our’ riders are already with Team SD Worx has created a good contact. The cooperation with Team SD Worx makes our team even more attractive to good juniors and promising riders. They realise that Parkhotel Valkenburg offers a good opportunity to become part of one of the world’s best teams in the UCI rankings. For many riders, it is a dream to one day race in the Team SD Worx colours. In addition to our training and balanced programme, this possible step through is an extra incentive for young talents to choose our team first.”
Raymond Rol, Parkhotel Valkenburg sports director
Mischa Bredewold caught the attention of women’s cycling fans with her daring attacks last season. The Dutch rider won a stage at the Baloise Ladies Tour from the break, outsprinting her companions. She so far hasn’t repeated that win but we’ve seen her trying plenty of times. She’s had numerous podiums this season, including at Leiedal Koerse and often works for the likes of Femke Markus when a race is heading for a sprint.
“I hope to develop in such a way that I belong to the best Dutch riders in the coming years. I know that Team SD Worx will give me the opportunity and the confidence to do so. I also think it is a privilege to ride with this collective and to be part of this super team. If there is a team where I can see how to win races, it’s at Team SD Worx.”
Mischa Bredewold
