Five weeks after becoming Dutch champion, Kelderman is about to experience another special milestone. The Tour de Pologne will be his first race in the national champion’s jersey. "I’m really looking forward to racing in the red, white and blue. As a Dutch rider, there’s nothing more special than wearing this jersey," Kelderman says enthusiastically. "It’s a huge honour to wear it for a whole year, and it gives me a lot of motivation for the races ahead."

At the end of June, Kelderman secured the biggest victory of his career by claiming the Dutch national title in Ede in impressive fashion. Cheered on by family and friends, the 35-year-old crossed the finish line in celebration after a 27-kilometer solo attack. "I came close so many times over the years. When it finally happens, it’s an incredible feeling," he reflects.

Having his family there made the moment even more memorable. "My children used to tell me, ‘Come on, dad, win a race!’ When I finally did, they were incredibly proud and gave me a big hug. One of the first things they asked was, ‘Dad, did you get a medal?’ They’ve always been fascinated by medals."

Kelderman’s victory was widely celebrated, not only within the peloton but also beyond cycling. "I received so many messages. Even when I was out in town or grabbing a coffee, people came up to congratulate me. That was really nice to experience."

Looking back on the race, Kelderman believes everything fell perfectly into place. "Everything just clicked. I’ve made it a goal this season to race more aggressively and attack earlier, and at the Dutch Championships that approach worked out perfectly. It’s reassuring to know I don’t have to be afraid of making an early move."

That attacking mindset is something Kelderman hopes to carry into the Tour de Pologne, which gets underway on Monday in Gdynia. The Dutchman is eager to showcase his champion’s jersey throughout the week. "Tour de Pologne has always suited me well. It’s an aggressive and tactical race where you have to stay open-minded. I’m hoping for a strong stage result or a good overall classification. With Bart, Louis and myself, I think we have several cards to play."

Kelderman has fond memories of the Polish stage race. He finished fourth overall in 2017, while two years ago he joined overall winner Jonas Vingegaard on the final podium. "I actually think I could have won that edition if I hadn’t crashed in the time trial. That was disappointing, but I still have very positive memories of that race. I was riding at a really high level and finished in the top three in several stages. I’m excited to see what’s possible this year."