Rabobank and recreational riders tackle the Cauberg

Team Rabobank held its traditional "Cauberg Clinic" last weekend in the Netherlands and allowed 400 Rabobank customers to ride the Limburg climbs alongside professionals. The rides finished atop the Cauberg, where the recreational riders were "the real winners," according to the team's website, rabosport.nl.

It was the eighth year that the team had hosted the event, which took place on Friday and Saturday. Almost all the riders from both the ProTour and Continental teams showed up for the event, which covered the traditional Limburg roads and climbs.

Overnight rain and muddy roads greeted the participants, but there were few falls, with one participant requiring medical assistance. "The sun came out quickly and it was possible for the cyclists, both the pros and recreational riders, to optimally enjoy the beautiful surroundings and each others companionship," the team reported.

It was the last official appearance for most of the riders before they take off on their holidays. It was one of the few opportunities during the year for all of the team's riders to get together. (SW)