Newcomer to the U23 ranks, Daan Hoole, has enjoyed a strong year in Academy colors. The progression and improvements of the 19-year old have been right on track, exemplified in the bronze medal that he powered to in the U23 Dutch Nationals time trial. “When I look back at my season I am very satisfied with it. I had the opportunity to race all sorts of races and learn from the best teammates. There was also a side of pain, bad luck, and crashes, but I overcame that pretty well and I know that it will make me stronger” points out the 19-year old. 

After his first year in the Academy, Hoole is looking forward to the formative side and that this year’s was the first stone to a long-running development plan. “The fact that in my first year I could lineup in races like Giro d’Italia U23 and Tour de Bretagne, it is really hard to top. Also, sharing the team with true leaders like Cees Bol and Julius van den Berg was something that really helped me and will help me to be better”. 

With 2019 just around the corner, the powerful and versatile Dutchman is putting in the hard work and long miles, but he remains excited about the upcoming opportunities. “I am working hard during the winter period and trying to improve as much as possible. Now that I have some experience, I want to target races like Tour de Bretagne, Triptyque des Monts et Châteaux, Paris Roubaix … However, the main goal will remain the same as last year, try to enjoy the journey as much as possible. The team chemistry is amazing off the bike as well, so I will be looking forward to the nice memories that will come”.