A shocking cardiac arrest nearly took the life of Belgian pro cyclist Nathan Van Hooydonck, but his story is one of resilience and a new beginning.
In the summer of 2023, Van Hooydonck was riding high, supporting his team leader to victory in the Tour de France. He had a bright future ahead, having also played a crucial role in Primož Roglič's Vuelta win in 2021. But fate had other plans.
In September of that year, while driving with his pregnant wife, Van Hooydonck suffered a massive cardiac arrest. He crashed his car and, in a terrifying turn of events, was clinically dead for a brief moment before being resuscitated.
After a series of emergency surgeries, Van Hooydonck woke up in the hospital, facing the harsh reality that his racing career, a significant part of his identity, was over.
Two years later, we delve into Van Hooydonck's journey, as he shares his experience and the lessons it holds for all of us.
But here's where it gets controversial... Despite the life-altering event, Van Hooydonck hasn't completely severed ties with cycling. In 2024, he returned to the WorldTour circuit, but in a different capacity. He now works in hospitality for his team, guiding VIP guests and providing them with a unique, tailored experience, walking in the footsteps of the riders.
"Guiding guests during races played a huge part in my healing process," Van Hooydonck shared. "Being present at the races helped me come to terms with my new reality."
Now, he's taken on a role in the team's commercial department, and even does media work, including commentary for TNT Sports.
"I've found my place within the team, Visma-Lease a Bike," Van Hooydonck says. "Apart from the cycling aspect, my daily routine hasn't changed much. I still see familiar faces, which is comforting."
Recalling his life-changing experience, Van Hooydonck says, "In 2023, I had just returned from the Tour of Britain, which, unbeknownst to me, would be my last race. I had a heart attack in my car - certainly not something you expect as a professional athlete in your 20s. I knew instantly that my cycling career was over."
And this is the part most people miss... The road to recovery wasn't easy. Van Hooydonck had to undergo multiple surgeries and manage the mental aftermath. He could have chosen to ignore it, but he knew that would be a lie.
After leaving the hospital, he began his gradual recuperation, even cycling again, albeit at a much slower pace.
"It was about taking it easy and enjoying the ride again," he explains. "Whether it was cycling or even playing golf - a sport that doesn't raise your heart rate much - it still took time."
Van Hooydonck now has an internal defibrillator to keep his heart in check. "People often point to their chest when they think of where it is, but it's actually close to my armpit," he clarifies.
"It's always 'aware' and monitoring, but it hasn't had to intervene yet. If my heart goes into overdrive, it notices and regulates it. It's not a pacemaker; it doesn't control my heart rate. My heart beats freely, and the defibrillator steps in only if it goes haywire."
A sensible approach to a new life... Van Hooydonck's cardiologist has given him clear guidelines on exercise: "I always need to stay under my threshold if I'm exercising for an extended period."
He understands the changes in his body and respects its limits. "My heart is different now," he explains. "It's like when you break your leg and it's put in a cast - when you remove the cast, all the muscle is gone. That's what happened to my heart. It was big, as a trained athlete."
"Recently, my cardiologist told me my heart is shrinking. That's actually a good thing, as it means the chances of another heart attack are lower, because my heart is now a normal size for someone who rides a bike occasionally."
But what about that competitive spirit? Does he still have it? "I feel like I could still beat my friends in a race, but I don't want to. Why push myself when my body has shown me how fragile life can be? I don't need to prove anything to anyone anymore."
Learning new skills and adapting... The former pro admits that transitioning to retirement was "super challenging," but he was fortunate to have supportive people around him.
"I'm grateful to my former team for seeing beyond just the rider Nathan van Hooydonck. They value me as a person, and that's special."
Van Hooydonck has been figuring out his role in the commercial department and adapting to a more desk-based job.
"I had to start working for the first time, but I also had to learn how to work. I had no idea how to build a PowerPoint, fill in spreadsheets, or manage an agenda. It's been a challenge, but I'm determined to make the most of it."
A clear decision... Wasn't he tempted to get back on the bike and give it another shot? "I know some athletes who have continued after heart attacks, but I knew quickly that it wasn't an option for me."
"After my accident, I asked my dad if I could ever cycle again, and he's always positive. He said, 'We'll see.' I knew then it was over. My wife didn't forbid me from cycling, but I just felt it was over. I didn't need to ask doctors; it was a clear sign."
Words of wisdom... Van Hooydonck's experience serves as a reminder that even the fittest among us aren't immune to heart issues. This is especially true for men, who are more prone to such issues due to the protective role of the hormone oestrogen in women.
He urges anyone taking on major endurance challenges to see a cardiologist first. "The risk of a heart attack goes beyond those who've already had issues. Even if you're healthy, it's worth getting checked. It'll give you the freedom to ride safely."
"Your body is your temple, and you only get one. Take care of it. Be responsible for yourself and your family. If you're scared to get checked, ask yourself, would you rather know and be healthy, or not know and risk it all? It's a responsibility to care for your body."
Van Hooydonck's story is a powerful reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of listening to our bodies. It's a testament to the human spirit's ability to adapt and find new paths, even in the face of adversity.
