After five years of competing for Team Jumbo-Visma as a speed skater, the 32-year-old Achtereekte switched to cycling in June this year. Although she initially lacked technical and tactical cycling knowledge, the former Olympic 3000-metre champion's superior sports mentality, strength, and fitness gave her the confidence she needed to advance in her cycling career.

At the Tour de Suisse, Achtereekte made her professional cycling debut. Many facets of cycling passed were presented, such as a time trial and climbing. "It took some getting used to", Achtereekte concludes, "but overall, it went better than planned." The rider also participated in the Vårgårda WestSweden the Tour of Scandinavia and the Ceratizit Challenge by la Vuelta.

"In Scandinavia, I experienced for the first time what it is like to be able to contribute to the team's performance", Achtereekte reflected. "Marianne Vos was riding incredibly well and had already won three stages. We also wanted to ride for her on the final day. So the race coach gave me a particular duty that morning. We got the leading group back and dropped Marianne off well for the last local lap. She lived up to her favourite role and won. That made me feel so good. It felt like I had won myself."

Rutger Tijssen, Team Jumbo-Visma Women's sports technical manager, asserts that Achtereekte has demonstrated in recent months that she fits with the group. "Carlijn is a diamond in the rough. We see a lot of potential, which she is not yet fully utilising. Therefore, we will keep guiding her so she can frequently play an important role. Next year, I expect her to shine, especially in the tougher stage races."

Achtereekte has given herself the objective of having a successful winter training season so she can begin the spring season in shape. "Additionally, 2023 will be a discovery-filled journey for me as I have never ridden a spring classic. But I know it will be good, so I'm looking forward to it."