Organizers of the Daags na de Tour cycling criterion in Boxmeer maintained their traditional podium hostess role during the event's 50th edition on Monday, July 27, 2026.
This decision defies a broader sport trend where many races have eliminated the practice amid debates over sexism.
Boxmeer organizers adapted the duties by having hostesses present flowers during podium ceremonies, leaving any celebratory kisses entirely to their personal discretion.
Volunteers Share Their Experience
Volunteering for the jubilee edition fulfilled a long-held ambition for local helper Mijke Nabuurs, 27, who previously assisted with event programs and flagging.
"I think it's a very fun experience to be able to participate in now," said Nabuurs, one of the three hostesses selected for the milestone event.
Preparation for the long race day began early in the morning with professional hair styling, makeup application, and the fitted donning of special anniversary dresses.
"I think it is going to be a very busy day, but a very fun one," said Nabuurs.
"There are a lot of enthusiastic people. It will certainly be a party."
Before accepting the ceremonial role, Nabuurs had spent years behind the scenes supporting the local cycling spectacle.
"With a smile, people had previously asked if I wanted to become a podium hostess, but I always brushed it off," said Nabuurs.
"That I am now allowed to be a hostess for this jubilee edition is very special to me.
That is really the highlight of all those years."
Organizer and Hostesses Speak Out
Organizer representative Ellen Ohoioeloen emphasized that three women have handed flowers to winning cyclists across all 50 editions of the local race.
"As an organization, we think it is a nice addition," said Ohoioeloen.
"It is still nice to see a few beautiful and enthusiastic ladies climb onto the stage to congratulate the riders."
Addressing modern social discussions surrounding women's roles in sports podium protocols, Ohoioeloen outlined the event's flexible stance regarding traditional victory kisses.
"And whether they give a kiss, they can decide for themselves," said Ohoioeloen.
For 22-year-old Silke Peters from Vortum-Mullem, participating in the 50th edition fulfilled a lifelong connection to the annual race.
"It was really an honor for me that I was asked," said Peters.
Peters grew up attending the event continuously alongside local sports clubs and close friends.
"It's super fun. I'm really looking forward to it.
My hairdresser asked if I thought it would be fun to become a podium hostess. It was really an honor for me that I was asked.
I have been coming here for as long as I can remember," said Peters.
In addition to podium flower presentations, hostesses participated in ceremonial convertible parade laps around the course layout.
"In the past, I also always walked along in the promotional parade with the sports club. And I come here every year with my friends," said Peters.
"There is always a very good atmosphere. I therefore expect that it will be a very fun day.
We get to present the flowers at the award ceremony and get to ride a lap around the course in a convertible."
Third hostess Jolie Segers, 21, shared a deep familial lineage tied directly to the history of the Boxmeer event.
"That makes it extra special," said Segers.
Segers noted her family's long involvement with the race before stepping onto the stage setup.
"I think it's really cool that I get to be here as a podium hostess this year.
Especially because my grandfather has been involved in the organization since the beginning of Daags na de Tour.
That makes it extra special," said Segers.
Standing near the podium positions prior to the arrival of the professional cyclists, Segers reflected on her transition from spectator to official event representative.
"Really a fun experience to experience it like this from this side," said Segers. "I never expected to still experience this.
Normally you see podium hostesses and now you are one yourself. And that smile, that is real.
It is just fun to do. The smile is therefore not fake."
