The beginning of the cyclocross season has brought a significant setback for Lucinda Brand. The 34-year-old Dutch cyclist will not be able to dive straight into the cyclocross races after her road season due to an injury sustained during the Simac Ladies Tour. A crash in the penultimate stage of the Dutch stage race, caused by a rider getting caught up in their musette bag during a feed zone, resulted in an injury to the ligaments surrounding her collarbone.
Brand, the cyclocross world champion from Oostende in 2021, suffered a severe injury to the AC joint, the connection between the acromion (shoulder) and the collarbone. She underwent surgery last Sunday in the Herentals hospital, and the news isn’t encouraging for cyclocross enthusiasts. Initially, she thought it was just a strain of the ligaments.
Despite enduring a restless night, Brand shared an update on her Instagram, saying, “Although I’m doing well, this injury takes time to heal.” The mental aspect of the recovery is proving to be a challenge for her. She expressed her anticipation for the start of her cyclocross season and her eagerness to regain her form from two years ago. This comment alludes to the physical issues that significantly hampered her in the previous cyclocross season.
Brand, a seasoned cyclist who rides on the road for Lidl-Trek, is uncertain about when she will be back racing. For now, her primary focus is on recovery and returning to her top form.
