What Rotem Tene calls “the most turbulent month of my life” – a month that included his first-ever professional victory, but also a painful breakup and heartbreak – ended today with the ultimate redemption: winning the Israeli National Road Championship and pulling on the champion’s jersey.

The 24-year-old IPT Academy rider from Hod HaSharon launched a decisive attack on his Israel – Premier Tech teammates Itamar Einhorn and outgoing champion Oded Kogut on the last lap crucial “water climb” of the championship race in Beit Guvrin, sealing a powerful solo victory.

But behind this victory lies a different story – one of emotional ups and downs turned into pure motivation when it mattered most, as the young rider candidly shared.

Rotem Tene:

“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.

I was completely unmotivated heading into the Nationals, barely slept the night before… but once the race began, everything changed. On the final decisive climb, with Itamar by my side and Oded just ahead, all the emotional pain merged with the physical suffering. 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.”

Rotem added that part of his mental drive came from the memory of his close friend and outstanding rider Guy Timor, who was tragically killed by a reckless driver just over a year ago.

The circle felt complete when Guy’s brother Noam Timor joined Rotem on the podium alongside teammates Einhorn (2nd) and Kogut (3rd), as well as IPT owner Sylvan Adams, who himself finished 2nd in the Masters race earlier in the day.

The new champion admitted he still hasn’t fully processed the moment:

“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.”

Other Championship Highlights:
• Under-23 Men: IPT Academy rider Matar Peretz claimed the U23 National Championship title for the second year in a row, with Roy Edinger finishing second and Saar Shilo third.
• Women’s Elite: Tamar Batzalel (IGP) took the Israeli Women’s National title.

Pictures: Ronen Topelberg