📸 Van der Hoorn does some soul searching in New Zealand with an impressive two-week journey

Most riders have spent the past weeks in Spain at team training camps, preparing for the new season under the Iberian sun. For some, the season kicks off as early as this weekend. Dutchman Taco van der Hoorn is among them, but he opted for a rather unique preparation. After all, why train in Spain when you can do it in New Zealand?

Because that is how Van der Hoorn prepared for the start of his season. Not only will it help him avoid the usual jetlag that a trip to Australia will give you, but you can’t blame him for his choice — just look at the views! On Instagram, the Dutch Intermarché-Wanty rider shared stunning images from his adventure. "What an unforgettable adventure," he wrote. "Two weeks of perfect training for both body and soul. Ready to pin on a number and get racing in the Tour Down Under."

Over 15 days, he rode a total of 2,014 kilometers across New Zealand, accumulating 73 hours on the bike. His longest day was a 225-kilometer ride, which meant nearly eight hours of cycling. And all of this was done while carrying some heavy gear, as it was a true bikepacking adventure. It’s hard to imagine this experience won’t give him an edge for the upcoming Tour Down Under, where he’ll kick off his season.

Read more below the post!

Van der Hoorn set for his third Tour Down Under

In Australia, Van der Hoorn will begin his third Tour Down Under, having previously raced in the WorldTour opener in 2020 and 2023. This year, he’ll be joined by Francesco Busatto, Dries De Pooter, Arne Marit, Tom Paquot, Dion Smith, and Georg Zimmermann. The Tour Down Under starts on January 21 with a flat stage from Prospect, a suburb of Adelaide. Stage five is expected to be the decisive day, with the familiar finish atop Willunga Hill.

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