For eleven-time winner of the Alternative Elfstedentocht Jan Roelof Kruithof (86) from Havelte, there will never be an Elfstedentocht again: ‘It is no longer possible, I have to be sensible’

taketonews

Elfstedentocht 1985: A quartet of riders crossing the bridge in Bartlehiem. Rein Jonker from Wytgaard is leading the way, followed by Hans Bouma from Dronten. At the back with number 91 is Jan Roelof Kruithof. Photo archive LC/Hans Slotboom

A mountain bike is parked against the hedge of the white villa Kruitstee in Havelte, designed by the resident himself. There’s mud on the tires, the thing wasn’t put there for show. It is freezing cold, but Jan Roelof Kruithof (86) stands there in his shirt and says: ,,Cycled 50 kilometers this morning.”

“For eleven-time winner of the Alternative Elfstedentocht Jan Roelof Kruithof (86) from Havelte, there will never be an Elfstedentocht again: ‘It is no longer possible, I have to be sensible'”

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