Utrecht, 20 November 2023 - Cycling city Utrecht is gearing up for the first National Cycling Gala, which will take place for the first time on 27 November at Royal Jaarbeurs. The Wielersporters van het Jaar will be chosen during this annual event. The winner will receive the Gerrit Schulte Trophy. After more than 60 years, the annual Wielergala will move from 's-Hertogenbosch to Utrecht. Enough reason for the organisers to officially transfer the Gerrit Schulte Trophy to the city of cycling last weekend.
Under the guidance of former professional cyclist and cycling mayor of Utrecht, Belle de Gast, 20 cyclists cycled from 's-Hertogenbosch to Utrecht yesterday morning: "This epic ride, together with talented youth cyclists, marks a wonderful symbolic beginning of the cooperation between 's-Hertogenbosch and Utrecht. It is a starting point to build on Utrecht's ambitions where youth, education, professional sport and the social impact of cycling come together. This is an opportunity to work on our long-term vision and plans."
Utrecht in hands of Gerrit Schulte trophy
The Gerrit Schulte Trophy is one of the awards presented annually to the best Dutch professional cyclist. It is named after Gerrit Schulte. Yesterday morning, Jan Schulte, Gerrit's son, gave the go-ahead for the symbolic handover and handed over the trophy to the initiators. Jan Schulte: "I regret that my father's trophy left 's-Hertogenbosch. Despite that, I do see more opportunities for the further growth of the Wielergala now that it is taking place in Jaarbeurs."
First National Cycling Gala in Royal Jaarbeurs
René Koppert of Club 48, organisers of the Wielergala: "We are delighted to hand over the trophy for Cyclist of the Year to Utrecht, a city that impressively embraces cycling and holds cycling tradition in high regard. We look forward to a spectacular Wielergala in Utrecht and are confident that the city will wear the trophy with pride."
Ralf van Heugten of Royal Jaarbeurs: "We are honoured that 's-Hertogenbosch entrusts us with this prestigious trophy. Utrecht is a city that lives and breathes on two wheels, and we are determined to continue this tradition. I am pleased that the people of Bosschen remain closely involved in the organisation, so that together we can put down an unforgettable Wielergala."
The Wielergala will take place on 27 November at Royal Jaarbeurs in Utrecht and is by invitation only.
