Top Kiwi road cyclist Linda Villumsen has extended her contract with Danish World Tour group Team Virtu Cycling, after joining halfway through this season.
The 32-year-old rider continued to improve throughout the year, impressing in the Boels Rentals Ladies Tour, making it to the podium on Stage 3 and ending the race in fifth.
"Of course, there were some challenges when you start in the middle of the season. The team had already bonded and you must find your place and get to know all the riders. Everyone really welcomed me, and it made it a lot easier to just concentrate on riding my bike," Villumsen said.
"I think the Virtu project as a whole is super exciting, and to be a part of a new concept and help develop this team is a good opportunity for 2018. There are some new signings that make the team super strong and very competitive."
Villumsen finished sixth at this year's World Time-Trial Champs in Norway, and is a strong favourite to medal at April's Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast. She won gold at the 2014 Games in Scotland, and is happy she can balance her team ambitions with defending her title.
"The team allows me to set my own goals and the Commonwealth Games in April is one of the season's highlights for me."
Villumsen is set to be one of the leaders at Team Vitru Cycling in 2018, with sports director Carmen Small delighted to have her on board.
"Linda made a comeback to the highest level at Giro Rosa, where she still was able to be at the front for several stages. She is a rider from the top level, and she has only improved since she came back to the peloton.
"In 2018 she comes into the season with proper preparation, and I am sure that we will see even bigger things from her. She can make the foundation for some great results with her individual time trial skills, where she is among the best in the world. Meanwhile, through her experience, she can help the rest of the riders become even better."
Newshub.
