New Israeli Champion Rotem Tene: “The Most Turbulent Month of My Life”

# Rotem Tene’s Triumph: “The Most Turbulent Month of My Life” Culminates in Victory

Rotem Tene, the newly crowned Israeli National Road Championship winner, described the month leading up to his victory as “the most turbulent month of my life.” Despite experiencing both a significant professional achievement and a personal heartbreak, Tene emerged victorious at the championship in Beit Guvrin, donning the coveted champion’s jersey.

The 24-year-old IPT Academy rider from Hod HaSharon executed a crucial attack on his teammates Itamar Einhorn and outgoing champion Oded Kogut during the challenging last lap. Tene’s solo victory was a testament to his resilience amidst emotional turmoil.

Reflecting on the rollercoaster of emotions that defined this period, Tene shared, “I went through a very challenging month, full of highs and lows – both personally and professionally. It started at the top, with my first professional win at the Tour of Portugal for the Israel – Premier Tech Academy team. But then came a very painful breakup after three years together.”

As he entered the Nationals, Tene faced a significant mental block. “I was completely unmotivated heading into the Nationals, barely slept the night before… but once the race began, everything changed,” he explained. During the final climb, with Itamar alongside him and Oded just ahead, Tene merged his emotional pain with the physical challenge: “For a few long, painful minutes, I gave everything I had – attacked Itamar, passed Oded, and suddenly I was alone, on my way to the win.”

Part of his motivation stemmed from the memory of his late friend Guy Timor, an elite rider who tragically lost his life due to a reckless driver over a year ago. Tene noted that this emotional connection played a crucial role in his performance.

The podium presented a poignant moment for Tene when Noam Timor, Guy’s brother, stood beside him as teammates Einhorn (2nd) and Kogut (3rd), as well as IPT owner Sylvan Adams, celebrated their accomplishments.

Tene admitted that the enormity of his victory still hadn’t fully registered: “It hasn’t sunk in yet, but I’m proud of the way we fought. None of us gave an inch, but we also worked hard together to stay clear of our rivals and make sure the jersey stayed in the team. I think the moment it will truly hit me will be when I race in Belgium wearing this jersey for the first time. That will be amazing.”

In addition to Tene’s triumph, the championship featured other noteworthy performances, including Matar Peretz securing the U23 National Championship title for the second consecutive year, while Tamar Batzalel claimed the Women’s Elite title.

This remarkable narrative of perseverance and triumph underscores the extraordinary spirit within the cycling community.