Shopping time. Oranges, cheese, pasta, nuts, bread, olive oil and a whole lot more fills up the shopping cart in no time. The sheer quantities of food surprises even the cash-clerk as she scans numerous items. Fifteen minutes later, lunch is prepared at the team’s temporary headquarters in Cyprus.
As riders get back from their training, hunger kicks in. Helping hands make light work as riders and crew team up to transform ingredients into a tasty meal. The woodfire is lit, to beat the still-lingering winter in Cyprus. Laughter erupts as fun is poked among the crew. There’s someone working in every corner. Be it the physio, the teammanager or the mechanic. A relaxed atmosphere makes it enjoyable but make no mistake, these guys are at it.
There’s a lot to be done before each season. This is where the team behind the riders truly stands out. Although mountain biking is an individual sport, the team can make a world of difference. Supporting the riders in all areas, providing them with the very best in materials and forging that team which makes life on the road far more enjoyable. There will be tough moments and this is where that teamspirit will make a world of difference.