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Pim Ronhaar is on a roll amidst the rain-soaked, muddy terrain. Cycling amidst a downpour is not an easy job to do, even if you are a professional. However, it is the ability to execute the hardest tasks perfectly that makes an athlete a champion. And that is exactly what Ronhaar did. As the rain came pouring down in Dublin, he did not flinch. Although the muddy road posed a significant challenge, the 22-year-old Cyclocross icon managed to hold his ground. 

After clawing his way through the tough terrain, the end of the race came as a sweet conclusion. Ronhaar went on to clinch the UCI Cyclocross World Cup in Dublin. This would be his second title, further proving his mettle as the potential next big thing in the cycling realm. So how did the race go for the champ? Let’s dive in and search for the answers below. 

Pim Ronhaar on top of the cycling world

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The Dutch cyclist did not have a smooth running on his way to victory at Dublin. He faced stiff competition from some of the biggest names in the cycling world. Eli Iserbyt, who is the leader in the World Cups, was in hot pursuit. In fact, his own team member, Thibaut Nys, had an early lead that was eventually dismissed by Iserbyt. However, this was not the end of Ronhaar’s woes. Belgian cyclists Jens Adams, Joran Wyseure, and Sweeck threatened to take the game away from the Dutchman. 

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This is exactly where the 22-year-old displayed his champion’s mentality. Steady cycling from Ronhaar meant that he had a three-second slim lead over Iserbyt. Sweeck however, was lagging by nine seconds, but by the time the last lap arrived, he gave a last-ditch effort. His spirited sprint almost overtook Ronhaar with just 300m left for the finish line. 

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Ronhaar remained focused and unfazed by the display of his competitors. He gained speed and eventually took the victory by the slimmest of margins- two seconds! The Dutch cyclist was elated and also enjoyed performing in the rain. 

Ronhaar enjoys the rain in Dublin

While most would think that the relentless rain would be a problem for the cyclists, the winner thought otherwise. He stated that the rain provided a much-needed element of interest and attraction. Other than that, the race would have been a bit boring. Ronhaar also acknowledged the support of the fans and promised to come back again next year. 

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Reflecting on his performance, the 22-year-old stated that he thoroughly enjoyed the ride. However, he did admit to getting nervous when Laurens went past him. Thoughts of losing the game crossed his mind. But Ronhaar kept his composure and ended up with a well-deserved victory in the end. 

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