"I have started enjoying my cycling again" - Dutch rider reveals difficult period

At 24, Dutch cyclocross rider Mees Hendrikx faced an uncertain future last year after his contract with Crelan-Corendon, led by the Roodhooft brothers, was not extended. With no offers from professional cyclocross teams, Hendrikx found himself in a challenging position until Heizomat RadTeam p/b Hermann stepped in. Reflecting on this unexpected turn of events, Hendrikx expressed his relief, telling WielerFlits, "It was a big relief."

As he prepares to race in the European Cyclocross Championships on Sunday, he looks back on the journey with gratitude. “It was a long search and difficult, but when I got in touch with this team, things went quickly again.”

Hendrikx discovered more than just a contract with the German team, he found an environment that renewed his love for cycling. “Peace, and it is much more family-like. I feel at ease here and have started enjoying cycling again and have found my way in this team again,” he shared. This supportive atmosphere, he believes, has been crucial to his renewed enthusiasm for the sport.

He attributes this to Heizomat RadTeam’s unique approach, contrasting it with his previous experiences in cyclocross. “They have a different approach to cross. I think it is much quieter. The boss started the team out of passion and love for the sport, because he loves cross. And those Germans are clear and straightforward. Dutch people generally are too, so I think we clicked right from the start.”

Looking ahead to the European Championship, Hendrikx is eager to represent his new team, but he has no regrets about skipping the recent Koppenbergcross. “It’s always nice to go to a European championship. The Koppenbergcross was not on the agenda anyway. As long as they don’t change that course, I won’t go there anymore,” he remarked with a serious undertone and a laugh, adding, “I really don’t like it, it’s really not my thing. I used to think the course was really beautiful.”

As Hendrikx prepares for the next chapter of his career with Heizomat RadTeam, he’s found renewed motivation in an environment that aligns with his values, helping him rediscover his passion for cyclocross.