Taking a break with Dr. Niek van Dijk while cycling through a German town.

From April 23 through May 1 this year, Dr. Almekinders participated in the Cycle for Science project organized by the European Society for Sports Traumatology, Knee surgery and Arthroscopy (ESSKA). Under the leadership of Professor Niek van Dijk, MD, Chairman of the orthopaedic surgery department of the University of Amsterdam, 40 cyclists consisting of orthopaedic surgeons from all over the world completed a ride from Amsterdam to Barcelona.

Approaching the top of Alpe d’Huez in the French Alps.

Along the way, there were stops in several cities where they held scientific symposia and fundraising dinners with the local orthopaedic surgeons. All proceeds went to orthopaedic research dedicated to research in degenerative musculoskeletal conditions that keep patients from staying active and healthy. During the trip the cyclists completed several challenging rides in the French Alps and Pyrenees, including rides to the top of Alpe d’Huez and Mont Ventoux. Once in Barcelona, the cyclists help open the Congress of ESSKA that attracted over 4000 orthopaedic surgeons and is held every 2 years.