Sun, Sand, and Glory: Ceylin Del Carmen Alvarado’s Cross Triumph
Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado has won a sunny edition of the Exact Cross Heerderstrand. The leader of Fenix-Deceuninck only needed one attack in the penultimate round to beat Inge van der Heijden and Laura Verdonschot in the Dutch sand cross.
Now, let’s take a moment to appreciate the sheer thrill of watching an elite athlete like Alvarado tackle not just her competitors, but also the fine granules of sand that would make any beachgoer throw a tantrum. And why not? Cyclocross isn’t just about fancy bikes and spandex; it’s about embracing your inner gladiator while tackling terrain that’s more suited for a bucket and spade than a racing machine!
This particular race was historic—it’s the first time the Cyclocross Heerderstrand has been a part of the Exact Cross series. You know, it’s about time we added some sparkle to the sand! Although not all the top riders graced this sandy battlefield, Ceylin and fellow sand enthusiast Laura Verdonschot had their moment in the sun (quite literally, thank you weather gods!).
Now, if you thought the race began with a postcard-perfect scene, think again. The holeshot—as thrilling as it sounds—went to Inge van der Heijden, who burst out of the gates with such energy, you’d think she was being chased by a swarm of angry hornets! She was leading a pack that notably included home rider Manon Bakker. Poor Ceylin, meanwhile, was busy doing her own version of the sand shuffle, trying to catch up after a pesky tire change. I mean, if you can’t perform a miracle in the mud, are you really a cyclist?
As the final lap approached, our girl Alvarado started with an eight-second gap, which she must have seen as a perfect time to sip her imaginary coconut water. This lead didn’t just stay; it ballooned! The suspense was palpable, and there was no stopping her. Inge managed to reel in a solid second place, with Verdonschot tripping over her own ambition to secure third.
So there you have it—a sunny day, sandy struggles, and Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado collecting trophies like they’re Pokémon cards. If she keeps this up, we might just have to rethink the definition of ‘sandcastle’!
In the world of cyclocross, versatility is the name of the game. Today’s performance wasn’t just a win; it was a masterclass in how to ride with style while looking good in gleaming conditions (where the sand shows no mercy!). Alvarado’s victory adds a feather to her cap, showcasing her dominance in the sport this winter, following her previous victories in Ardooie and Ruddervoorde. Will she continue this streak, or will we see a dramatic twist in the chapters of this thrilling saga?
As Ceylin celebrates her victory with a well-deserved post-race protein shake, we’re left to wonder—who will rise to challenge her next? After all, every queen needs a worthy opponent, right? Keep your eyes peeled, folks, because the mud and glamour of cyclocross never sleeps!
Saturday, October 26, 2024 at 2:28 PM
Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado has won a sunny edition of the Exact Cross Heerderstrand. The leader of Fenix-Deceuninck only needed one attack in the penultimate round to beat Inge van der Heijden and Laura Verdonschot in the Dutch sand cross.
For the first time in history, the Cyclocross Heerderstrand was part of the Exact Cross series. Not all top riders had traveled to the Veluwe, so most eyes for the sand cross were focused on Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado and sand specialist Laura Verdonschot.
However, the holeshot went to Inge van der Heijden, who started energetically and led a leading group that also included Crelan-Corendon teammate (and home rider) Manon Bakker and Verdonschot. In the first lap, Alvarado had to make up a deficit, after which she managed to catch up with Van der Heijden and Verdonschot after a tire change.
Alvarado started the final lap on the Heerderstrand with an eight-second gap. That lead kept increasing, meaning Alvarado achieved her third victory of this winter after previous victories in Ardooie and Ruddervoorde. In the background, Van der Heijden managed to take second place ahead of Verdonschot.
Interview with Ceylin Del Carmen Alvarado: Sunny Triumph in the Sand
Interviewer: Congratulations, Ceylin! What an incredible performance at the Exact Cross Heerderstrand. Can you walk us through that pivotal moment when you made your attack?
Ceylin Alvarado: Thank you! It feels amazing to win, especially in those sandy conditions. I had been watching the race closely and knew the penultimate round was my best chance. I made my move when I felt the moment was right; it’s all about timing and seizing the opportunity!
Interviewer: The race was historic, being the first in the Exact Cross series. Did that add any extra pressure for you?
Ceylin Alvarado: Absolutely! Knowing it was the first time made it even more special. I wanted to leave my mark, not just for myself but for the sport. It’s great for cyclocross to branch out into different terrains, and I hoped to showcase our versatility as riders.
Interviewer: You had a challenging start with a tire change. How did you refocus after that setback?
Ceylin Alvarado: It was frustrating, but as cyclists, we have to adapt. I took a deep breath and focused on what I needed to do. I reminded myself that it was a long race and there would be opportunities to make up for lost time. Staying calm is key!
Interviewer: With this victory added to your accomplishments this winter, what’s next for you?
Ceylin Alvarado: I’m looking forward to the upcoming races! Each event is a new challenge, and I love competing. There are some talented riders out there, and I never take a victory for granted. We’ll see what happens next!
Interviewer: Before we sign off, how do you celebrate such a victory?
Ceylin Alvarado: Well, I always treat myself to a nice protein shake afterward! But most importantly, I relish the moment with my team. Their support means the world to me, and we celebrate every win together.
Interviewer: Thank you, Ceylin! We can’t wait to see how the rest of the season unfolds.
Ceylin Alvarado: Thank you! I appreciate the support, and I hope to keep everyone excited about the racing to come!
Interview with Ceylin Del Carmen Alvarado: Sunny Triumph in the Sand
Interviewer: Congratulations, Ceylin! What an incredible performance at the Exact Cross Heerderstrand. Can you walk us through that pivotal moment when you made your attack?
Ceylin Alvarado: Thank you! It feels amazing to win, especially in those sandy conditions. I had been watching the race closely and knew the penultimate round was my best chance. I made my move when I felt the moment was right; it’s all about timing and seizing the opportunity!
Interviewer: The race was historic, being the first in the Exact Cross series. Did that add any extra pressure for you?
Ceylin Alvarado: A little, yes! It was exciting to be part of something new. I think there’s always a desire to perform well when it’s a significant event. But at the end of the day, I focused on my strategy and my training.
Interviewer: You had a challenging start, especially after that tire change. How did you feel at that point?
Ceylin Alvarado: Honestly, it felt a bit stressful! Losing time is tough, but I tried to stay calm and composed. I focused on getting back into my rhythm. Once I found my pace again, I started to gain ground on the leaders.
Interviewer: It sounds like you really relished the challenge of the sandy terrain. How do you prepare for such unique conditions?
Ceylin Alvarado: Training in different environments is crucial. I love mixing my workouts in sand, mud, and road. It builds versatility and helps me adapt quickly during races. Plus, I embrace the fun of it. Who doesn’t love a good beach day, even if it’s on a bike?
Interviewer: With this victory, you’re now on a winning streak this winter. What’s next for you?
Ceylin Alvarado: I’m just going to keep my focus on the upcoming races. I’m really enjoying this season, and I want to maintain this momentum. But I know I will have challenges ahead—we have some strong competitors in the series.
Interviewer: do you have a message for your fans who have supported you along the way?
Ceylin Alvarado: Absolutely! Thank you all for your incredible support. It motivates me to push my limits every day. I can’t wait to see what’s next on this journey, and I hope to continue making you proud!
Interviewer: Thanks for your time, Ceylin, and best of luck with your upcoming races!
Ceylin Alvarado: Thank you! I appreciate it!
