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Kramer outdoes himself in first year: "It went better than expected"

Kramer outdoes himself in first year: "It went better than expected"

Jesse Kramer has finished his first year as a rider for the Jumbo-Visma Development Team. In his first year, the 19-year-old Dutchman was even allowed to join the pro team several times and, in his own words, is starting to feel more and more like a pro rider. A look back and forward with the first-year U23 cyclist.

Kramer was pleased that his first season exceeded his expectations. "It went better than expected. I had anticipated learning primarily from the races, my teammates, and the team coaching. All in all, it was an enjoyable and instructive year."

The cyclist has gained several insights after spending the entire season with Team Jumbo-Visma's development team. "I mainly learned riding as a team. In the U23s, you need your team to win, while in the juniors, you can also win on your own. This year, I learned what it's like to compete as a team and achieve success", the Dutchman said. The outcomes also contributed to his personal development. "I gained more self-confidence, partly because the races went so well. I've taken steps by believing in myself, and I'll carry that into the next period."

Two moments from the past cycling season Kramer will not soon forget. "For all of us, the Flanders Tomorrow Tour was a success. Thanks to good teamwork, we eventually won the general classification with Lars, and I won the mountain jersey myself. I'll never forget Christophe Laporte's victory at Binche-Chimay-Binche. I got to join the pro team. It was awesome to be part of such a team and race with many spectators along the road."

"In the U23s, you need your team to win, while in the juniors, you can also win on your own"

Jesse Kramer

Kramer hopes to take another step in his second year as a U23 rider. "Both with the team and in training sessions, things are generally improving. It is important to continue this form and development. I was a real all-rounder this year, capable of performing on any terrain. Next season I hope to specialise further in riding classics." For next season, he has already set some goals. "I want to take more initiative in the races. Take my chances, read the course and seize opportunities."

The riders' support staff will play an essential part in it. "After the season, we reflect on the races, and this stood out, among other things. During next season's races, I will work on this area of improvement in conjunction with the coaches", he concludes.

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