Cervélo TestTeam has hired Dutchman Egon van Kessel as the new Sports Director for their women’s team. A 53-year-old native of Kerkdriel, Netherlands, van Kessel has had extensive cycling experience as both a coach and sports director.

From 2001 to 2008 van Kessel led the elite male and female riders from the Netherlands at the World Championships and at the Olympic Games as the national coach. He has worked for the Dutch Cycling Federation for over fourteen years and, in addition to his work there, has spent more than seven years in pro cycling teams.

“When the team contacted me, I was immediately enthusiastic. I knew the new General Manager, Joop Alberda, from the Olympic Games in Athens and before, and was very impressed by his work. Also, I am impressed by how Cervélo TestTeam, after one year on the road, has grown to such a strong team.

“The team has a positive and a progressive atmosphere. As a coach I have enjoyed working with the Dutch National Team and I am again very motivated to work for the women’s team of Cervélo TestTeam,” explained van Kessel. “My goal for next year is to have the team at least at the same level of success as this past season, and to develop the young riders in the team.”

“Egon is a very knowledgeable and experienced sports director who has been an integral part of the international cycling world for years,” said press officer Geert Broekhuizen. “Egon shares the values and goals of our team and is the right person for the job.”