Denise Betsema, the Dutch cyclo-cross racer, will ride her final competition for Pauwels Sauzen - Cibel Clementines this Sunday at the Sluitingsprijs van Oostmalle. This marks the conclusion of her six-year tenure with the team, as her contract is officially not being renewed.
Originally, Betsema's contract was set to expire during the New Year’s transition. Nevertheless, following discussions, the team agreed to extend her contract briefly until the end of the season, which concluded at the end of February 2025. Despite this extension, her adventure with Pauwels Sauzen - Cibel Clementines will come to an end post-Sluitingsprijs, the team confirmed.
“We would like to thank Denise for her commitment and dedication and wish her much success in her future career,” stated Jurgen Mettepenningen, the team manager, expressing the sentiments of the organization.
Speaking on her departure, Betsema indicated she is not contemplating retirement. “My path is free and I see it with an open mind and much confidence. I am already looking forward to the new season!” she posted on Instagram, displaying both enthusiasm and optimism about her future.
Denise, who originally signed with the team back when it was called Marlux-Bingoal at the end of 2018, has been one of the prominent figures within women's cyclo-cross. She rapidly clinched victories, winning the World Cup race at Koksijde shortly after arriving. Her experience has seen significant ups and downs, including recovering from a six-month suspension due to doping, which had cost her several results.
Unfortunately, this season proved to be less than stellar. Betsema struggled to secure podium finishes at international events, failing to reach the top tier throughout most of the season. Her best performance this year was at the national championships, where she secured third place behind Puck Pieterse and Ceylin Alvarado.
Despite these challenges, Betsema experienced glimpses of resurgence leading up to her final race, often breaking back through the top ten. Although these results have not been sufficient to secure another contract, they do highlight her determination and potential to rebound.
This farewell from Pauwels Sauzen - Cibel Clementines closes a significant chapter in Betsema's career, but it does not signify the end of her racing days. With multiple years of experience under her belt and the drive to continue improving, the future remains bright for the thirty-two-year-old racer.
Betsema's contributions to women's cyclo-cross and her representation for the Pauwels Sauzen - Cibel Clementines team will be remembered fondly by fans and teammates alike. It's clear she leaves with cherished memories and the respect of her peers.
While the next steps are still uncertain, Betsema's resolve remains clear. “I am already looking forward to the new season!” she appears ready for her next venture, whatever it may be, potential new team announcements being highly anticipated by fans.
With her professional career entering yet another phase, enthusiasts of the sport eagerly wait to see what the future holds for Denise Betsema. Known for her resilience and competitive spirit, she undoubtedly has more to offer the world of cyclo-cross.