Spanning the Decades and Continuing the Legacy
25 years ago, when I hatched the idea for Velo Classic Tours, the world was a very different place. There was still a great divide between continents, information didn’t travel at lightning speed, and all the magic and myth of Europe- culturally, historically and sportingly- had an allure and intangibility that had to be experienced first-hand to appreciate. Within a few years I believe I created a means to experience all the riches of Europe with the bicycle as the means, through what we defined as our 3 pillars- Serious Cycling, Sublime Culture and Exemplary Service.
As the world rapidly advanced through technological changes- social media, smart phones, travel apps- the world seemed to be shrinking. But what could not be replaced, or replicated, was the experience- and the means to experience it through- of living and riding in European culture. If a dream is best experienced in the golden hours of sunset, then it seems my sunset lasted more than 2 decades.
Aside from all the magical bike rides, and hedonistic indulgences that illuminated and defined so many of our trips, the most lasting impressions came from the people I met. There were local townsfolk, shop owners, chefs, hoteliers, hosts, hostesses, all who played their part in the enterprise of our experiences. I was also very fortunate to have entrusted my business to some of the most generous, kind and loving people I’ve met. They worked harder than I asked, got up earlier than they needed to, and managed more than expected. I believed then, and believe still, they shared the same vision of what enlightened hospitality means. And most importantly, it all worked because so many of you trusted me with your vacation. You handed me a responsibility that I never took lightly, you colored my life in unimaginable ways, and you blessed me with enduring friendships. This I am most grateful for.
Operating a business in the cycling industry enabled me to combine my entrepreneurial spirit and cycling fandom to create opportunities for providing unique experiences across all of our trips. As a cycling fan, I was able to indulge in the reality of my dream unfolding in front of me- from meeting Felice Gimondi, Eddy Merckx, Freddy Maertens, Fiorenzo Magni, to working and riding with a host of former professionals I rooted for when they raced. Perhaps the most rewarding friendship that grew out of my travels is the one I share with former Dutch cyclist Martijn Maaskant. For those of you fortunate enough to have been on a trip that Martijn joined, you are aware of his selfless personality, his wit, and his genuineness. Martijn is simply a joy to be around, and he made the trips he was on that much more personable with his down-to-earth, inquisitive, and fun loving style. What was harder to get out of him was understanding the grit and determination it took to finish 4th in both Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders, and the peaks and valleys he experienced across a successful 10-year career.
Following the divergence of our paths over the past nine years, Martijn and I reconnected on a Spring Classics trip this past April. We picked up where we had left off, and the trip was the culmination of all I had dreamt up so long ago. While I knew I couldn’t reignite a roster of trips, I felt the business deserved more than just a cameo appearance in my work life. How fortunate to have shared Velo Classic Tours with a like-minded individual to a point where this dream is being turned over and will continue in the hands of someone who shares the same passion for the sport, culture and the rewards of hospitality.
Martijn approached me a few months ago about taking over Velo Classic Tours, and I am thrilled to announce the business will transition to ownership with Martijn as the new owner and director. The foundation of the business will remain the same, while the trips will take on a new personality, with a homegrown European feel. I am excited to work with Martijn on the transition of the business, and ensure all goes smoothly for 2025 and beyond, and that the energy and passion that saw my dream come to life will continue. The website and newsletter outreach will be reactivated, and there will be more updates to follow, so please stay tuned and welcome Martijn in his new role.
