Team Visma | Lease a Bike Women has had a long training period and is looking forward to the road season. Vos is also excited to take the starting blocks: “I love the competition and I’m looking forward to racing again.” Vos’ biggest personal goal this year is to reach her peak fitness and to appear at the start of the races with that form: “For me, having fun and being fit are the foundation for results. I’m convinced that the results will follow when these factors are in place.”

The preparations for the road season, including several training camps, have gone well for the riders. According to Vos the team spirit is high: “We have trained well, and the atmosphere among us is definitely positive. We are prepared to push together and support each other.”

Vos herself stayed a little longer in Spain to finish her training in good conditions. She is pleased with the result, even though it always remains to be seen how things go in the race. “It’s always exciting to see where you stand, even if you feel good. Plus, it’s the first time I’m riding Setmana Ciclista Valenciana. It’s nice to start the season differently this year. I’m looking forward to it.”

Several of Vos’ teammates started the racing season with Santos Tour Down Under in Australia, where they achieved several top 10 places. “That’s a great result and a boost for the whole team”, she says. Now the focus is on the Setmana Ciclista Valenciana, a suitable race to start the season according to Vos. She especially appreciates the fact that there are four stages, unlike most spring races that are one-day events: “That way, you can immediately gain rhythm and come even closer together as a team.”

With four days, the Setmana Ciclista Valenciana offers plenty of possibilites for the team. The goal is to at least attempt to secure a stage victory. According to Vos, the race has numerous opportunities: “We can effectively use the depth of the team. The first two stages offer plenty of chances for attacks. On the third day, a true climbing stage is scheduled, ideal for riders like Rosita and Riejanne who have already shown their qualities uphill. The fourth day could end in a sprint with a larger group or conversely become a day for breakaways. Our goal is to use the opportunities as much as possible and make our mark on the stages”, Vos concludes with determination.

In addition to Marianne Vos, Riejanne Markus, Anna Henderson, Rosita Reijnhout, Margaux Vigie, Maud Oudeman and Sophie von Berswordt will be at the start on behalf of Team Visma | Lease a Bike Women.