Roy van den Berg: The Bullettrain
In the high-octane world of track cycling, where milliseconds separate the good from the great, Roy van den Berg has emerged as a hero. Born on September 8, 1988, in Kampen, Netherlands, van den Berg has become a symbol of perseverance, excellence, and resilience. His crowning achievement came in 2024, when he accomplished what few athletes ever dream of: winning gold at the World Championships, European Championships, and the Olympic Games in a single year. Now, with his eyes set on the Sixdays Weekend in Berlin, van den Berg is ready to add another chapter to his storied career.
The Golden Year: 2024
The year 2024 will forever be etched in the annals of track cycling as the "Golden Year" for Roy van den Berg. Teaming up with Harrie Lavreysen and Jeffrey Hoogland, van den Berg dominated the team sprint discipline on every major stage. The trio’s impeccable synergy and unmatched power led to a series of historic wins:
• World Championships: Van den Berg and his teammates claimed gold, reaffirming their dominance in the team sprint discipline.
• European Championships: Continuing their streak, they captured the top podium spot, solidifying their reign over Europe.
• Olympic Games: At the Paris 2024 Olympics, they not only won gold but shattered the world record with a breathtaking time of 40.949 seconds, becoming the first team to complete 750 meters in under 41 seconds.
This trifecta of victories not only showcased van den Berg’s physical prowess but also his mental fortitude and unyielding dedication to his craft.
A Journey Defined by Resilience
Van den Berg’s road to success has not been without its challenges. As a young cyclist, he faced stiff competition and moments of doubt. Yet, through sheer grit and determination, he rose through the ranks, becoming a cornerstone of the Dutch team sprint powerhouse. His journey has inspired countless aspiring athletes, proving that hard work and resilience can overcome any obstacle.
The Return to Sixdays Weekend in Berlin
As the 2025 Sixdays Weekend approaches, anticipation for van den Berg’s third appearance at the event is at an all-time high. Scheduled to take place from January 31 to February 1 at the iconic Velodrom, the Sixdays Weekend is a blend of elite cycling and vibrant entertainment. Having competed twice before, van den Berg returns with renewed purpose: to claim the crown that has eluded him thus far.
The Sixdays Weekend holds a special place in van den Berg’s heart. It’s not just a race; it’s an opportunity to connect with fans and showcase his mastery on the track. With the momentum from his historic 2024 season, van den Berg is the favorite to dominate the competition.
The Legacy of a Champion
Roy van den Berg’s journey from a determined young cyclist in the Netherlands to a triple gold medalist and global track cycling hero is a testament to his unwavering dedication and exceptional talent. With his sights set on victory at the Sixdays Weekend in Berlin, he continues to inspire with every pedal stroke. The story of Roy van den Berg is not just about winning; it’s about the relentless pursuit of greatness and the legacy of a true champion
Mateusz Rudyk: Diabetes can’t stop to Triumph at Sixdays Weekend
Mateusz Rudyk, Poland's premier track sprinter, has carved out a remarkable career, not just for his victories but for his inspiring fight against adversity. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 12, Rudyk has become a beacon of resilience and determination. In January 2024, he claimed victory at the Sixdays Weekend in Berlin, cementing his place among the elite. Now, in 2025, he returns to defend his title as the reigning champion.
Fighting Adversity with Diabetes
At 12 years old, Rudyk’s life changed with a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. Despite the challenges, he remained undeterred. With support from his family and a disciplined approach to managing his condition, Rudyk transitioned from football to track cycling, finding the explosive nature of sprint events perfectly suited to his talents and health needs.
Managing diabetes as a professional athlete requires constant vigilance. Rudyk relies on continuous glucose monitoring technology to track his blood sugar levels during intense training and competitions. He emphasizes that while diabetes adds complexity to his career, it doesn’t define or limit him. “With proper control, nothing can stop you from fulfilling your dreams,” he asserts.
A Stellar Career
Rudyk’s career is marked by significant milestones, including:
• 2016: Gold in Team Sprint at the European Championships.
• 2019: Bronze in Individual Sprint at both the World Championships and European Championships.
• 2024: Winning the Sixdays Weekend in Berlin, becoming a fan favorite with his dynamic performances.
Rudyk’s accomplishments extend to multiple national titles, solidifying his reputation as one of Poland’s greatest sprinters.
Sixdays Weekend: The Triumph of 2024
In January 2024, Rudyk captivated the audience at Sixdays Weekend in Berlin with his unmatched speed and tactical prowess. Claiming the championship in a fiercely competitive field, he demonstrated why he’s one of the best in the world. His victory was not just a personal achievement but also an inspiration for athletes managing chronic conditions.
The Return in 2025
As the reigning champion, Rudyk’s return to the Sixdays Weekend in 2025 carries significant anticipation. Fans eagerly await his performance, knowing his relentless drive and focus. Competing against a new set of challengers, Rudyk aims to defend his title and reinforce his legacy at one of the most prestigious events in track cycling.
Advocacy and Inspiration
Beyond his successes on the track, Rudyk serves as an ambassador for Team Novo Nordisk, the world’s first all-diabetes professional cycling team. In this role, he inspires individuals living with diabetes, proving that the condition is not a barrier to achieving greatness. “Through my own journey, I show others that with determination and proper care, you can achieve anything,” Rudyk says.
Conclusion
Mateusz Rudyk’s journey from a young boy managing diabetes to a world-class track cyclist is a testament to perseverance and grit. His return to Sixdays Weekend in 2025 as the reigning champion symbolizes not just his athletic prowess but also his role as an inspirational figure in the world of sports. With every race, Rudyk continues to prove that overcoming adversity can lead to extraordinary triumphs.
The Madison and its Iconic Handsling: Innovation in Track Cycling
The Madison, a team-based track cycling event, is a thrilling combination of speed, strategy, and seamless teamwork. Named after Madison Square Garden, where it was first held in the late 19th century, this discipline involves two-rider teams alternating between racing and resting. Each team competes to score points during sprints or gain laps on the field. Central to its success is the handsling, a move born out of necessity and perfected over decades.
Why the handsling was necessary
In the Madison’s early days, the race format required one rider to be active on the track while their partner rested. Simply tagging in and out proved inefficient, as the incoming rider often struggled to match the high speed of the ongoing race. This created gaps in momentum and disrupted the team’s rhythm, placing them at a disadvantage. Early variations, such as pushes or taps, addressed this issue but lacked the fluidity needed for top-level competition.
The handsling solved these problems by allowing the resting rider to transfer their momentum directly to their teammate. This not only ensured smoother transitions but also enabled the incoming rider to accelerate instantly, keeping the team competitive in the high-stakes environment of the Madison.
Mechanics of the handsling
The handsling is a precise, dynamic maneuver requiring skill, strength, and coordination. Here’s how it works:
1. Positioning: The resting rider rolls into a position slowly increasing his speed, poised for their partner’s arrival. Meanwhile, the racing rider approaches at high speed.
2. Hand Connection: As the riders draw close, the resting rider extends their arm backward while the racing rider reaches forward to grab it.
3. The Sling: With a swift, forceful motion, the resting rider uses their arm and body weight to sling their partner forward. This transfers momentum from the resting rider to the incoming one, allowing them to accelerate rapidly and maintain race pace.
4. Switching Roles: The newly active rider takes to the front while the other pulls off the track to recover for their next turn.
This motion is both elegant and powerful, epitomizing the teamwork that defines the Madison.
Tactical Advantages of the handsling
The handsling’s importance extends far beyond its mechanics; it is a cornerstone of modern Madison tactics:
• Maintaining Speed: By accelerating the incoming rider, the handsling ensures the team’s speed remains consistent during exchanges, preventing any loss of momentum.
• Efficient Energy Use: Riders conserve energy by alternating active and resting periods, maximizing their endurance for critical moments.
• Strategic Timing: Handslings are often timed to coincide with intermediate sprints or attacks, ensuring the strongest rider is on the track during decisive points.
• Lap Gains: The handsling’s efficiency allows teams to execute sustained efforts to gain laps on the field, a key objective in the Madison.
The Handsling: A Symbol of Teamwork and Innovation
Today, the handsling is a signature feature of the Madison, symbolizing the evolution of track cycling. It combines athleticism with strategy, demanding flawless execution under intense pressure. From its humble beginnings as a practical solution to race inefficiencies, the handsling has become an iconic element of the sport.
Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer to track cycling, watching the Madison and its expertly executed handslings offers a thrilling glimpse into the artistry and precision of this demanding discipline.
Derny Racing: Secret Communication and Strategy
Have you ever wondered how riders and pacers work together in the electrifying Derny races of the Six-Day cycling events? This unique race format combines speed, strategy, and a touch of mystery. A deeper look into the world of Derny pacers reveals the astonishing dynamics behind the scenes.
What is a Derny?
A Derny is a motorized bike designed specifically for pacing. It looks like a cross between a bicycle and a small motorcycle. The pacers who operate these machines are true masters of their craft, not only controlling speed but also influencing their rider’s strategy. With the wind protection provided by the Derny, riders save energy for the decisive moments of the race.
How Does a Derny Race Work?
In a Derny race, cyclists ride behind a pacer who sets the tempo with their Derny. Speeds typically exceed 60 km/h (37 mph). Pacers control the flow of the race by strategically accelerating or slowing down. Riders must know precisely when to stick with their pacer or take a risky breakaway.
The secret Language between Rider and Pacer
Communication between rider and pacer is crucial and often subtle. Pacers use short calls like “Allez!” or “Ho!” to signal their intentions. These words, steeped in tradition, carry significant meaning. “Allez,” meaning “Go” in French, is a call to push harder or maintain focus, urging the rider to give their all. On the other hand, “Ho” signals a need to ease off or adjust positioning, helping the rider conserve energy or prepare for a tactical move.
Riders, in turn, provide feedback through body language or small signals. This silent coordination requires years of experience and a deep mutual understanding. An experienced pacer can sense how much energy their rider has left and adjust the pace accordingly. This connection is hard to master, and the best pacers are seasoned veterans whose knowledge is often passed down through generations.
Why is Derny Racing so exciting?
1. Tactical Brilliance: The combination of speed and strategy makes every race unpredictable.
2. Teamwork: The chemistry between rider and pacer can decide victory or defeat.
3. High Speeds: The thrill of riders taking steep curves at breakneck speed is unmatched.
4. Unique Roles: Pacers add a special dynamic to the race that is unlike anything else.
Derny Racing at Six-Day Events
Derny races are the centerpiece of Six-Day events. They showcase the true mastery of riders and pacers. Cyclists like Roger Kluge, known as “The Professor,” excel with their tactical finesse and ability to perfectly time every moment.
Keirin: Speed, Strategy and raw Power
The Keirin is a highlight of Sixdays Weekend in Berlin, designed specifically for sprinters—a distinct group of riders known for their explosive power and speed. Unlike endurance riders, sprinters specialize in short, intense efforts, making the Keirin a thrilling spectacle of raw athleticism and tactical brilliance.
What is Keirin?
The Keirin is a motor-paced race where six sprinters compete for victory. The event begins with a pacing motorbike, known as the derny, which ensures a controlled start. Riders follow the derny as it gradually increases speed, allowing them to position themselves strategically before the final sprint.
How are positions determined?
At the start, the six sprinters are assigned their initial positions behind the derny through a draw. This random allocation adds an element of unpredictability and challenges riders to adapt their strategy based on their starting position.
How does it work?
1. The Start: The riders line up according to the draw and follow the derny as it steadily increases speed.
2. The Derny Pulls Away: With about 2.5 laps remaining, the derny exits the track, and the riders launch into an all-out sprint.
3. The Sprint to the Finish: The sprinters unleash their full power, battling for position and timing their final push to the line.
Why is Keirin exciting?
• Exclusive to Sprinters: The race showcases the explosive abilities of cycling’s most powerful athletes.
• Tactical Drama: Riders must carefully choose when to make their move, balancing positioning and timing.
• High Speeds: The sprint finish sees riders reach incredible velocities, creating edge-of-your-seat action.
• Unpredictable Results: With positions determined by a draw and split-second decisions, every race is unique.
Conclusion
The Keirin at Sixdays Weekend in Berlin is a must-see for fans of pure speed and strategy. As six elite sprinters battle it out, the combination of tactical positioning and explosive power delivers an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss this thrilling race!
Madison: The Royal Discipline
Known as the Royal Discipline of track cycling, the Madison is the centerpiece of the Sixdays Weekend in Berlin. Combining endurance, strategy, and teamwork, this race offers unparalleled excitement and showcases the very best of track cycling. To truly appreciate the Madison, it’s essential to understand the difference between laps and points, both of which are crucial to the outcome.
What is the Madison?
The Madison is a team event, typically featuring two riders per team. The race is conducted over a set time or distance, with riders taking turns on the track to maintain high speeds. While one rider is actively racing, the other rests by circling the top of the velodrome. The active rider can tag their teammate into the race using a dynamic hand-sling maneuver, a defining feature of the Madison.
Laps vs. Points: How they Shape the Race
1. Laps: Gaining a lap on the field is the ultimate goal. Each lap gained puts the team ahead in the overall standings. Conversely, losing a lap puts a team at a significant disadvantage. Laps are considered more critical than points in determining the winner.
2. Points: Points are awarded during intermediate sprints, held at regular intervals throughout the race. The first four teams across the line in these sprints earn points: 5 for first, 3 for second, 2 for third, and 1 for fourth. Points act as a tiebreaker when teams are on the same number of laps, making them an important secondary objective.
Key Strategies in the Madison
• Timing the Hand-Sling: Teams must execute seamless transitions to maintain speed and efficiency.
• Lap Management: Deciding when to push for a lap gain or focus on defending against one is crucial.
• Sprint Tactics: Positioning for intermediate sprints can make or break a team’s chances in a close race.
• Endurance and Coordination: Success requires both physical stamina and flawless communication between teammates.
Why is the Madison so exciting?
• Dynamic Format: The constant transitions and shifting dynamics between laps and points keep the action unpredictable.
• Tactical Depth: Teams must balance the pursuit of laps with the accumulation of points, creating a chess match on wheels.
• Teamwork: The hand-sling exchanges and coordination between teammates add an extra layer of complexity.
• Spectacle: The high speeds, strategic maneuvers, and sheer athleticism make the Madison a crowd favorite.
Conclusion
The Madison at Sixdays Weekend in Berlin is a thrilling showcase of teamwork, endurance, and strategy. With laps as the ultimate measure of success and points as the vital tiebreaker, every moment of the race counts. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to track cycling, the Madison is sure to leave you in awe of its complexity and excitement.
Chasing Points: The Intensity behind Points Race
At Sixdays Weekend in Berlin, the Points Race is a high-intensity endurance event where teams compete to score points during intermediate sprint laps held every fifth lap. While teams can theoretically gain a lap on others, the constant high speed and shorter race length compared to the Madison make this rare. Therefore, each sprint lap is crucial.
How It Works
1. The Race: Teams race over a set number of laps, aiming to collect as many points as possible.
2. Sprint Laps: Every fifth lap is a sprint lap. Points are awarded to the first four teams: 5 for first, 3 for second, 2 for third, and 1 for fourth.
3. Lap Gains: Although gaining a lap earns 20 points, the pace and format of the race make this highly unlikely.
4. Winning: The team with the highest total points at the end of the race wins.
Strategies for Success
• Sprint Emphasis: Teams must prioritize contesting every sprint lap to accumulate points.
• Efficiency: Effective energy management is vital due to the race’s relentless pace.
• Coordination: Seamless teamwork is essential to maintain positioning and capitalize on sprint opportunities.
Why It’s Exciting
• Constant Action: With sprint laps every five laps, the intensity never lets up.
• Critical Moments: Every sprint lap has a significant impact on the leaderboard.
• Tactical Challenges: Teams must balance aggressive sprinting with sustained endurance.
Conclusion
The Points Race at Sixdays Weekend in Berlin is a showcase of strategy, speed, and teamwork. With every fifth lap delivering pivotal points, it’s a race where every second counts. Don’t miss this thrilling highlight of the event!
Sprint Competitions: 250-Meter Time Trial and Sprint at Sixdays Weekend
Sprinting is a core part of the Sixdays Weekend in Berlin, offering spectators pure speed and strategic duels. Two key disciplines take center stage: the 250-meter time trial and the sprint competition. These events are not only impressive but also closely connected, as the results of the time trial determine the matchups for the sprint races later in the evening.
250-Meter Time Trial: The Race Against the Clock
The 250-meter time trial is an individual event where each sprinter completes the velodrome track as quickly as possible. Starting with a flying start, the rider accelerates and reaches maximum speed over the final 250 meters.
• Goal: Achieve the fastest possible time.
• Technique: Perfect lines through the curves and maximum acceleration on the straights.
• Excitement: Spectators love the tight time differences, often decided by fractions of a second.
The Sprint: Tactics Meet Explosiveness
The placements in the 250-meter time trial determine the pairings for the sprint competition. Here, riders face off in head-to-head duels. Unlike the time trial, the sprint is not just about speed but also about strategy.
• Format: Two riders start together and tactically assess each other in the opening laps before launching into the final sprint.
• Goal: Outsmart the opponent and cross the finish line first.
• Strategy: Positioning, sudden changes in pace, and psychological tricks are crucial.
Why Are These Events So Exciting?
• Top Speeds: Both events showcase the incredible speed and power of sprinters.
• Strategic Depth: Especially in the sprint, the tactical elements are fascinating to watch.
• Connection Between Disciplines: The time trial sets the stage for the direct duels in the sprint, creating a continuous arc of excitement.
Conclusion
The 250-meter time trial and sprint competition at Sixdays Weekend in Berlin offer the perfect combination of speed, strategy, and excitement. The close connection between these two disciplines creates a dynamic and thrilling experience that captivates both athletes and spectators. Don’t miss these fascinating competitions!
Team Elimination: Don’t be last over the line
The Team Elimination race is one of the most exciting events at Six-Day cycling competitions. Known as the "Devil," this high-stakes contest combines strategy, teamwork, and speed in a battle for survival.
What is Team Elimination?
In this race, teams of two riders compete to avoid elimination. After every three laps, the last team to cross the finish line is eliminated, continuing until only one team remains as the winner. It’s a fast-paced event that demands constant awareness and strategic positioning.
How It Works
1. The Start: All teams begin together, alternating between riding and resting.
2. Eliminations: The last team each elimination lap is out of the race.
3. Teamwork: Riders perform seamless hand-sling exchanges to maintain speed and efficiency.
4. The Finish: As teams dwindle, the intensity peaks, requiring ultimate stamina and strategy.
Keys to Success
• Positioning: Stay out of the back to avoid elimination.
• Timing: Perfect exchanges between teammates are crucial.
• Awareness: Riders must anticipate elimination laps and adjust efforts.
Why It’s Exciting
• Unpredictability: Every lap changes the race dynamics.
• High Stakes: Each lap matters, creating constant tension.
• Skillful Exchanges: The hand-sling moves are a spectacle.
Conclusion
Team Elimination races are a highlight of Six-Day events, offering adrenaline-fueled action and showcasing unparalleled teamwork and strategy. Don’t miss this thrilling spectacle at Sixdays Weekend in Berlin!
The Art of Attack and Defense in Madison Races
The Madison is one of the most electrifying events in Six-Day Cycling, showcasing a blend of endurance, speed, and strategy. In this team-based discipline, two-rider teams alternate between racing and resting, aiming to score points in sprints and gain laps on their competitors. Central to its excitement are the tactical elements of attack and defense, which dictate the rhythm and outcomes of the race.
What is an Attack in the Madison?
An attack in the Madison is a calculated effort where a team accelerates to break away from the peloton (the main group of riders) with the goal of gaining a lap or dominating a sprint. Attacks are often well-timed and designed to catch opponents off guard.
How an Attack Works:
1. Setup: The attacking team positions themselves near the front of the peloton, ready to strike.
2. Execution: The active rider surges forward at high speed, creating a gap between themselves and the group.
3. Sustained Effort: To make the attack successful, the rider must maintain the breakaway pace, requiring endurance and precise timing.
Why Teams Attack:
• Gain a Lap: Gaining a lap on the field is a game-changer, earning the attacking team significant points and a tactical edge.
• Secure Sprint Points: Attacks often coincide with intermediate sprints, allowing teams to claim critical points.
• Exhaust Opponents: Forcing rivals to chase can sap their energy, leaving them vulnerable later in the race.
What is a Defense in the Madison?
Defense in the Madison involves countering or neutralizing an opponent’s attack to prevent them from gaining an advantage. Defense requires sharp observation, quick reactions, and efficient teamwork within and between teams.
How Defense Works:
1. Spotting the Attack: Teams in the peloton watch for signs of a potential breakaway, such as riders moving to the front or increasing their pace.
2. Chasing the Attacker: Once an attack begins, teams accelerate to reduce the gap and bring the attacking rider back into the group.
3. Collaborating in the Peloton: Multiple teams often work together in defense, sharing the effort of chasing down the attacker. By rotating leadership in the chase, each team conserves energy while ensuring the attack doesn’t succeed.
Why Teams Collaborate in Defense:
• Mutual Interest: If an attacking team gains a lap, every other team is at a disadvantage. Collaboration ensures no single team shoulders the burden of defense.
• Energy Efficiency: By taking turns setting the pace, teams in the peloton can conserve energy while maintaining a high-speed chase.
• Strategic Alliances: Temporary alliances form during defense, with teams recognizing that cooperation benefits everyone in the group. Once the attack is neutralized, the competition resumes.
The Balance between Attack and Defense
The dynamic interplay of attack and defense defines the Madison. Teams must calculate when to strike and when to conserve energy, balancing their ambitions with the need to neutralize threats. Overzealous attacks can leave a team vulnerable to counterattacks, while overly passive defense can allow rivals to gain the upper hand.
A Strategic Chess Match
The Madison’s unique format turns it into a tactical chess match played at breakneck speed. Attacks inject adrenaline into the race, while coordinated defenses showcase the intelligence and teamwork of the peloton. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to Six-Day Cycling, the drama of the Madison lies in its intricate strategies, where every move brings the riders closer to triumph—or defeat.