The news that cyclocross world champion Fem van Empel is putting her career on hold indefinitely has hit her fellow cyclocross riders hard. Especially the fact that Van Empel no longer enjoys cycling resonates and is understood by Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado, Lucinda Brand, and Puck Pieterse.
Over the past years, they have often watched Van Empel win fifty cyclocrosses, including three world and European titles; now, the world champion is sorely missed. "Of course, even without Fem van Empel, the racing is hard and the fight for victory is intense, but it’s really a shame when the world champion isn’t there," says Alvarado. "And especially because of her reasons. I hope she recovers soon."
A sentiment Pieterse shares. "In cyclocross, she’s a huge loss. Fem showed how high the level can be. Ideally, you want to race against the very best. She, Shirin (van Anrooij, ed.), and I are all about the same age, and it’s always more fun when you can compete with each other. I think everyone will miss her—not just in races, but also for chatting outside competitions, checking out the course, or riding out together."
Since Van Empel’s absence, Lucinda Brand has become the dominant figure, but she also regrets the situation. "We’ve now been racing without her for several weeks. You could already tell things were different. Now that we know the news, it’s not much different. It’s a shame she can’t start all those races, but it’s much worse if you ride without enjoying it and are just in your own way," says the former world champion.
Ever-increasing expectations
We often see Pieterse riding around with a smile, but that doesn’t mean she can’t empathize with the challenges Van Empel is facing. "It’s not even really about no longer enjoying cycling itself. There’s so much more involved than just riding a bike. Initially, you ride because you like it. But at the highest level, more is expected from you."
"If at some point you’re not weighing your breakfast, attending altitude camps, doing heat training, or counting your carbs during rides, you just fall short. Expectations keep increasing. I think those things can be more burdensome for a rider than not enjoying cycling. I believe Fem still loves cycling," concludes Pieterse.
It was often a beautiful battle with Van Empel - photo: Fotopersburo Cor Vos
Self-criticism
Brand points to the immense pressure riders face today. "That can definitely be draining. I think every athlete experiences periods like that. Ultimately, there’s a reason we compete at the highest level—it’s because we’re very critical of ourselves. There are also people who may have a lot of talent but are less self-critical. They may not get as far."
"The outside world, your coaches: everyone always wants to get the absolute best out of you. That can be tough. Not every personality deals with it the same way. Even when you’re younger, it can be challenging," says Brand.
The former world champion wishes Van Empel mental peace. "Of course, I don’t know why she’s not feeling well. Ultimately, I hope she’ll soon tackle things with a smile again that make her happy. I’m glad she’s made a clear decision. I hope that decision gives her the peace to do things that do make her happy. That’s what I told her too. That’s what’s most important—sport is secondary."
