CASTELLI Cycling Podcast

There’s a great deal of excitement surrounding the young US talent Luke Lamperti, but no one – not even himself – knows quite what sort of rider he is or will become as he embarks on his first World Tour season with Soudal Quick-Step.

Originally from California, Lamperti began riding dirt bikes at the age of three. Over the recent seasons, he has emerged as one of the most sought-after young riders, showcasing his prowess with numerous victories and promising potential in sprints and one-day races.

Packing an impressive speed, the 21-year-old is keen to show what he is capable of, not just in bunch sprints but also in the Classics, which he is very fond of.

In this podcast episode, Luke Lamperti shares his experiences and insights on crit and kermesse racing and his career. He discusses his training, favorite race courses, and the importance of comfort and trust in the pack. Luke also talks about his transition from US racing to European racing and his goals for the future.From his affinity for Castelli gear to his race-day nutrition strategies, Lamperti provides a comprehensive glimpse into the life of a professional cyclist, offering invaluable insights for both amateur enthusiasts and seasoned professionals keen on crit racing.

We hope you’ll enjoy this fully packed and insightful episode with Luke Lamperti of @soudalquickstep 

TOPICS DISCUSSED

00:00 Introduction

03:06 Luke's Background and Journey into Cycling

4:51 Return to Castelli

7:56 Transition from US Racing to European Racing

9:21 Move to Girona and Signing with Soudal Quickstep

21:17 Crit and Kermesse Racing

27:18 Training for Crit Racing

31:36 Tire Size, Pressure, and Nutrition for Crit Racing

34:00 Ending

– LINKS –

Luke Lamperti

Host: ⁠Soren Jensen⁠

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Join us for a gripping journey into the heart of professional cycling as we delve into the last three decades of pro racing and the world of sports directing.

From Tom’s excitement of joining the number one Classics team when racing pro to later becoming DS for the same team, discover the evolution of cycling, the challenges young athletes face, and the importance of mental toughness in this captivating conversation.

From the chaos of the Tour of Flanders to the relentless battlefields of Roubaix, we uncover the strategies, challenges, and split-second decisions that shape the outcome of these monumental races, the intense pressure, camaraderie, and occasional controversies that unfold behind the scenes.

Discover the untold stories of mechanics scrambling to find the riders' foul-weather clothing in the rain bag, spare wheels, the strategic game of supplying riders during crucial moments, and the delicate balance between following the rules and prioritizing rider safety and performance.

Gain insight into the human side of professional cycling as Tom reflects on the joys of victory, the frustrations of defeat, and the unwavering dedication to supporting riders through triumph and adversity.

Get ready to experience the thrill, tension, and exhilaration of cycling races like never before.

Take a seat inside the Soudal Quick-Step team car as we explore the dynamics during some of the most iconic races in cycling history.

Welcome inside the team car and the unseen drama of cycling races.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

00:00 Introduction

04:43 The Early Years, Tom’s Journey Into Cycling

13:59 Transforming Young Talented Riders into Champions

18:04 The Transition to DS

21:50 Studying the Race Course

24:59 Race Radio vs Moving on Instinct

26:11 Racing, Communication, Post-Race Briefing

39:02 Race Rain Bag Logistics

48:43 UCI Rules and Fines

59:29 Eddy Merckx

01:10:15 Ending

It's a fully packed and insightful episode with Tom Steels of Soudal Quick-Step. 

– LINKS –

Tom Steels

Host: ⁠Soren Jensen⁠

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In the world of professional cycling, where the spotlight often shines on the riders conquering the grueling races, there exists a group of individuals working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure every pedal stroke is supported by a perfectly tuned machine. These unsung heroes are the mechanics, the wizards of the workshop who transform bikes into race-ready steeds capable of enduring the harshest conditions and most demanding terrains.

We chatted with Nicolas Coosemans, technical and development manager of Soudal Quick-Step to find out more about the life of a World Tour mechanic, his wildest fixes of all time, the evolution of bike equipment over the last decade, which riders are interested in bike maintenance, how quickly their mechanics can set up a bike, and more. 

(Recorded in Calpe, Spain, December 14, 2023)

TOPICS DISCUSSED

00:00 Introduction

01:50 Nico’s Journey

07:19 What makes a good mechanic? 

10:01 A Day In The Life Of A Pro-Mechanic

20:02 Tubes, Tubular or Tubeless? 

21:16 Tire inserts and Extra Sealant for RBX

24:55 Grand Tour Custom Paint Job and Bar Wrap

26:48 Transition To Disc Brakes

28:58 Maintenance and Evolution of Bike Tech 

38:32 Crashes, Broken Parts

39:48 UCI Safety Rules

43:18 Ending

– LINKS –

⁠Nicolas Coosemans⁠

Host: ⁠Soren Jensen⁠

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If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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In this episode, we are delighted to introduce Ilse Pluimers, a young and exceptionally talented athlete from the Castelli-equipped AG Insurance Soudal team, excelling in both cyclocross and road cycling.

It's a lively conversation about Ilse's passion for cyclocross and one-day racing. We explore how she balances her road career with cyclocross in winter, and she shares insider tips and know-how about this amazing sport, covering technical aspects and how to get started. 

Towards the end of the episode, we delve into Ilse’s passion and love for the cobbled classics, particularly the iconic Paris-Roubaix. We hope you enjoy this episode, gaining a deeper understanding of the world of cyclocross and Ilse's impressive journey in the sport.

Enjoy!

TOPICS DISCUSSED

00:00 Introduction

05:02 The Cyclocross Athlete

8:34 The Course, Recon, Race Prep.

20:56 Race Time

25:27 Cyclocross idols

26:25 How to Get Started, Technical Skills

35:41 Paris-Roubaix, How To Ride Cobbles

41:37 European Road Championship U23

45:16 Cycling Journey

47:40 Ending

– LINKS –

Guest: ⁠⁠Ilse Pluimers⁠⁠

Host: ⁠⁠Soren Jensen⁠⁠

GCN: ⁠Why Should You Watch CX?⁠

SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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[Video on YouTube]

Join us as we delve into the heart-pounding world of professional cycling as Mikel Landa, the experienced Basque climber, gears up for an exciting season with Soudal Quick-Step.

Fresh from a stellar performance in the 2023 Vuelta and a podium at the 2022 Giro d’Italia, Landa takes on a supporting role for Remco Evenepoel in the Tour de France, all while anticipating a lead in the 2024 Vuelta a España.

We'll explore Landa's passion for climbing and the Giro d’Italia, as well as his admiration for Evenepoel's determination, as they strive for that essential rider-to-rider connection. We’ll also bring you some invaluable climbing training tips, techniques, in-and-out of the saddle, and the burning question: Does he glance at his power meter during a race? Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of cycling prowess and camaraderie!

(Recorded in Calpe, Spain, December 13, 2023)

TOPICS DISCUSSED

(00:00) Introduction

(03:10) The Basque Country

(10:29) Talent for Climbing, Cycling Heroes

(12:32) First Pro-Race

(13:50) Giro d’Italia

(16:43) Evolution of Bike Technology

(17:59) The Mental Game

(20:15) Race on Instinct vs. Radio

(21:20) Grand Tours

(24:22) What Makes a Great Climber

(26:45) Improve Your Climbing Skills

(31:16) Powermeter

(32:37) Ending

– LINKS –

Guest: ⁠Mikel Landa⁠⁠

Host: ⁠Soren Jensen⁠

SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Join the Belgian cycling superstar as he shares insights from his off-season trip to California, discussing his training regimen, strategic race selections leading up to the Tour de France and the Olympics, as well as his aspirations to secure gold medals in both Paris and the road Worlds in Zürich.

We delve into specific Tour stages, particularly the critical mountain and gravel stages, analyzing their potential impact on the overall race dynamics.

The discussion also touches on the differing training approaches for targeting a Monument compared to preparing for a grand tour. 

Additionally, Remco discusses his R.EV Brussels Cycling Academy project aimed at empowering young talents and unveil future topics for his YouTube channel. He shares insights into the WolfPack camaraderie within the team and much more. 

It's a fully packed and insightful episode with Remco Evenepoel of Soudal Quick-Step.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

00:00 Introduction

02:16 Off-Season, USA

06:59 Favorite Off-Season Ride

09:38 Recap of 2023 Season

12:40 Early Season Races

17:25 Mikel Landa

19:52 2024 Olympics

21:36 Tour de France

26:19 Cobbles and Gravel in Grand Tours

29:07 Road World Championships

30:52 YouTube Channel

34:45 Training and Recovery

42:32 Giro d'Italia

44:51 R.EV Brussels Cycling Academy

45:50 WolfPack

51:07 Giveaway!

51:38 Ending

 – LINKS –

⁠Remco Evenepoel⁠

⁠R.EV1703⁠

⁠R.EV Brussels Cycling Academy⁠

⁠Remco Evenepoel Merchandise⁠

SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Join us as we explore optimal fueling and hydration strategies for winter training rides and eSports events together with the renowned sports performance nutritionist Dani Hofstetter.

In this episode, we discuss hydration strategies for varying conditions, from cold outdoor rides to warm indoor eSports events. Dani shares best practices for staying hydrated during cold rides, optimizing fluid intake, and maintaining performance during indoor riding and ultra eSports events. We discuss effective post-training recovery techniques and how alcohol can impact performance. 

If you’re seeking specific, expert-backed fueling advice, the Castelli Sports Nutrition series is your source to help fuel your biological machine. It covers a wide variety of information about a healthy cycling lifestyle for athletes of all abilities and training levels.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

(00:00) Introduction

(02:01) Winter Riding: Hydration and Fueling

(7:27) Indoor Riding, Zwift: Hydration and Fueling

(12:07) Dressing for Indoor Riding

(14:32) Post-Ride Refueling

(17:12) Alcohol and Performance

(21:46) Window of Opportunity

(27:41) Importance of Sufficient Protein Intake

(28:38) Get in Touch with Dani

(29:44) YoloMites5000      

(32:57) Ending 

– GUEST –

Dani Hofstetter has been fueling champions for over 20 years. He holds the IOC Diploma in Sports Nutrition, awarded by the International Olympic Committee as part of the program of the IOC Medical and Scientific Commission. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with a wide spectrum of athletes, from World Tour cyclists to mountaineers and everyday amateur cyclists.

CONNECT

⁠⁠Dani Hofstetter bio⁠⁠

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠ 

– HOST –

Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has been working for this iconic brand since 2006. You can usually find him riding the backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso.

CONNECT

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

– LINKS –

YoloMites5000

Velo Article

Holimites, book you YoloMites5000 Trip

SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Get your burning questions answered by cycling stars such as Remco Evenepoel, Tim Merlier, Bert Van Lerberghe, Mikel Landa, Tom Steels, and many more. Check below for a preview of some of the riders and staff who will be interviewed for the Castelli podcast.

To submit your questions, simply head to the Spotify app. Once there, select the latest Castelli Cycling Podcast episode and find the Q&A box on the episode page. Tap 'ask a question,' hit save, and you're all set.

Stay tuned for the unveiling of these answers in our weekly episodes starting January 9, 2024.

Soudal Quick-Step

Remco Evenepoel

Luke Lamperti

Mikel Landa

Tim Merlier

Bert Van Lerberghe

AG Insurance - Soudal Quick-Step

Ilse Pluimers

Gaia Masetti

Justine Ghekiere

STAFF

Tom Steels (DS, Sports Director)

Nicolas Coosemans (Technical & Development Manager)

Phil Lowe (Press Officer)

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In this episode, we delve into the topic of fueling for race days, ultra events, or triathlons, discussing how to prevent or recover from 'hitting the wall' (also known as bunking), sports drinks, and more on nutrition. This advice comes straight from sports nutrition expert Dani Hofstetter.

For the past two decades, Dani has empowered triathletes, cyclists, world tour riders, ultra athletes, mountaineers, and runners to reach their fullest potential with their fuel. He holds the esteemed IOC Diploma in Sports Nutrition, awarded by the International Olympic Committee.

If you’re seeking specific, expert-backed fueling advice, the Castelli Sports Nutrition series is your source to help fuel your biological machine. It covers a wide variety of information about a healthy cycling lifestyle for athletes of all abilities and training levels.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

(00:00) Introduction

(02:23) Race Day Fueling  

(5:39) Protein Absorption

(6:56) Fuel For An Ultra

(10:41) Fueling During a Triathlon, Ironman

(15:21) What Goes Into a Good Sports Drink?

(20:35) Calculate Sweat Rate, Hydration, Sodium 

(27:49) Sodium Bicarbonate For Performance  

(32:30) Energy Drinks - Substances to Steer Away From

(36:33) Can You Mix Sports Drinks?

(40:01) Carbohydrate Intake, Liquid vs Solid Food

(41:57) Hydro-Bladder For Racing, Unlimited Pro Jersey 

(44:39) Ending

 – GUEST –

Dani Hofstetter has been fueling champions for over 20 years. He holds the IOC Diploma in Sports Nutrition, awarded by the International Olympic Committee as part of the program of the IOC Medical and Scientific Commission. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with a wide spectrum of athletes, from World Tour cyclists to mountaineers and everyday amateur cyclists.

CONNECT

⁠⁠Dani Hofstetter bio⁠⁠

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠ 

– HOST –

Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has been working for this iconic brand since 2006. You can usually find him riding the backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso.

CONNECT

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS

If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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Join us on a thrilling ride through the world of cycling eSports and the evolution of Castelli's engagement on Zwift.

Learn how to get started on Zwift, hear about Castelli’s indoor and virtual cycling gear plus how to balance virtual and real-world cycling through winter.

We wrap up with how to get involved in the Castelli community and join our rides on Zwift.

TOPICS DISCUSSED

(00:00) Introduction

(3:44) What are eSports

(10:47) Zwift Overview

(21:55) Castelli on Zwift

(33:58) eSports Chit-Chat

(37:45) Castelli Insider Gear

(40:19) Community, Squadra Castelli

(41:42) Strava Challenges

(45:04) How to join

Ashleigh Moolman Pasio - Post-Lockdown Rocacorba QOM 

https://www.strava.com/activities/3384147898

Castelli Zwift Events

https://www.zwift.com/events/tag/castelli 

Castelli Zwift Club

https://www.zwift.com/clubs/squadracastelli 

Castelli Strava Club

https://www.strava.com/clubs/SquadraCastelli 

Castelli Spotify Playlist

https://castelli-cycling.link/spotify

 – CO-HOST, Rich Lovelock –

Greetings from just north of London, UK! Former mountain biker turned roadie with a healthy dose of gravel. Enjoy mixing it up with some indoor racing and structured workouts. Used to love the thrill of real-world racing though stick mostly with GranFondo events these days. Involved with planning and organising Castelli's eSports activities along with fostering the online community and clubs. 

CONNECT

Zwift name: Rich (Castelli)

Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/rich.lovelock

⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠: https://www.strava.com/athletes/richlovelock 

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-lovelock 

 – GUEST, Lars Blesvik –

Coming to you from a pain-cave just west of Oslo, Norway! Started off riding Offroad in the nineties, turned to road and gravel. Tested most, if not all cycling e-sports platforms, but have ended up being mostly devoted to Zwift. Still ride all year round, but more focus on adventures and views outside, and do the structure indoors.

CONNECT

Zwift name: Lars Bl

Instagram⁠⁠: https://www.instagram.com/larsvagen/

⁠⁠Strava⁠⁠: https://www.strava.com/athletes/601719

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠: https://no.linkedin.com/in/corto

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