Ladies Esmée Gielkens

Q&A with Esmée Gielkens

Which foreign language would you like to speak fluently and why?

Hands down Italian or Spanish. I find it 2 beautiful languages. I've been planning to learn it for a while, but because of work and cycling I haven't really had the time yet. Although Chinese also seems a fun challenge to me.

What is your favourite hobby, besides cycling? 

It may sound boring, but I really enjoy little things like playing with my cats, preparing food, going to the store with my mom, watching TV with my family, cleaning my bike after a muddy ride, ...

What is the best gift you ever received?

I was super happy when I got to pick up my new Ridley bike for the upcoming season! But I think it's even more fun to give gifts to other people.

If you could be an animal for one day, which would you pick?

Probably some kind of bird, just exploring the world in a different perspective. Perhaps also a fish in a beautiful clear sea/ocean somewhere between the coral reefs. Or maybe a cat, just being lazy all day.

Who or what do you admire?

My parents. Because of them I get the chance to combine my cycling career with my job at their company. They have always supported me and brought me to races in Belgium and abroad. I'm extremely grateful and couldn't imagine my life without them. But I also admire other female cyclists like Marianne Vos, Demi Vollering, Cecilie Uttrup Ludwig, ... who promote women's cycling through their high level and the pleasure they show on the bike.