LAIVES – Looking at the starting list of the EF Education-Easy Post al Tour of the Alps there was a rider born in 2005 whose name aroused interest and curiosity. Markel Beloki, son of Joseba, has completed his first four months as a neo-professional.
Twenty-five days of competition spread over ten races – of which two WorldTour and three stage races – They are a good starting point for those who should be in their first year among the U23sWe approached young Beloki before a stage of the TotA and judging from our chat, his approach to the world of adults is almost one of reverence for everything. Like a guest entering someone else's home and observing all the best manners so as not to disturb. In reality Markel is absorbing everything he sees and everything that happens around him..
Chat and coffee
The EF Education-Easy Post bus, like many others, is equipped with a coffee machine that pops out of a side compartment. It's the riders' bar, where they catch up with each other, mechanics, fans, and journalists. The sports director also passes by. Tejay Van Garderen who smiles at Beloki, who smiles back, as if to say, "Today it's your turn with the interviews." We take this as a cue.
“The relationship with Tejay is excellent,” Markel tells us, “and I’m very happy about that. I remember watching his races and performances carefully.I could say that I have similar characteristics to him, but I don't know if I'm more of a climber. He was definitely a great rider who was strong on climbs and in time trials. I also like time trials. In fact, he teaches me a lot on both terrains. I would love to get to his level, but I know it's very difficult to reach.».
Keyword: learning
Beloki is friendly with everyone. But to race in today's cycling world, you have to be able to show real determination as soon as you get on your bike. So how was this start to the season?
«I feel like I'm improving – he replies confidently – I've definitely made a big leap from junior to a WorldTour team.Now I think I need to take the time I need to learn a lot about this new category. I want to continue like this, step by step, without too much rush.
«I have many teachers, to be honest – he continues – starting of course with the sports directors. Every day I am learning a lot from my teammates, who always help me a lot.They're all special, they know a lot and have a lot of experience. I don't have a real point of reference because everyone in the team is. Of course. Having great champions like Rui Costa, Chaves, or Carthy to learn from is great. For me, this is the best starting point.».
«So far I have also learned in all the competitions I have competed in – Beloki tells us with a hint of satisfaction – for example the The Tour of the Basque Country was truly beautiful. For me, it's my home race. It's a very tough race, though.Every stage was challenging, stressful, from start to finish. I'm a climber, but both in Spain and abroad Tour of the Alps There were many climbs and many climbers much stronger than me. In these races my job was to help the team, working hard for my teammates. I'm very happy with how things went."
Little pressure, lots of details
We were saying that Markel has a prominent surname that, like many others like him, creates inevitable comparisons. However, he remains faithful to his low profile and doesn't think about it.
«My father Joseba – explains Beloki junior – he had a good career, however we are in two periods so different that comparisons cannot be made. That's why my last name doesn't weigh on me. I don't feel any pressure at the momentI only think about doing my best as a professional every day that passes."
«My goal is to learn – concludes Markel – as you may have understoodI have so many things to learn, especially the little ones. For example, going to the team car to get water bottles for myself and my teammates. It seems easy to everyone, but it's actually very difficult, as well as important. So, from this too... I have already understood that to try to be a good rider in the future you have to take care of these details. There is no other way."
