The journey of the new Swiss UCI Continental Team NEXETIS began in Tuscany in February. During the ten-day training camp in Massa Marittima, the group came together excellently, says team manager Anna Wiese. «It is inspiring to work with these young athletes; there is a lot of enthusiasm for the project and great gratitude for the commitment.» NEXETIS is a funding programme launched by Swiss Cycling in November to help aspiring female athletes make the step up into professional cycling. 

At the training camp, work was done on both physical fitness and tactical basics. In the races, the focus will now be on implementing strategies – which, for athletes without much experience, is a considerable challenge. These first races will be without radio communication. The athletes and the staff therefore have to learn to communicate during the race and to function as a group. 

On Wednesday, the Umag Classic will be the first race for the team, followed by the Porec Classic on Sunday. NEXETIS will be represented by Nika Bobnar, Noelle Ingold, Yurina Kinoshita, Jasmin Liechti, Noëlle Rüetschi and Larissa Tschenett in the category 1.2 races on the Istrian peninsula. «For these first races, our main focus is to execute our strategies as a cohesive team. The athletes are well prepared and ready to give their best. While results are important, we are more focused on how we perform together and how well we can adapt to the race conditions. If we stay true to our plan and communicate effectively, the results will come», says Anna Wiese.