In the family Pellizotti Cycling is something that every member has in their blood and it's curious to think how it all started directly with Franco, a former long-time pro who gradually involved everyone in his activity, up to his daughter. Giorgia who we have seen to be one of the youngest standard-bearers of the SS Sanfiorese.
To follow his daughter's exploits (when he is free from his commitments as sports director at Bahrain Victorious) Pellizotti also rented a camper van with which he toured on weekends with his family: «I'll tell you the truth, I never liked campers when I was racing, but I have to admit that they are a convenience.Giorgia can shower as soon as the race is over, and she'll be comfortable on the way home too. I think we'll buy one...
What is your relationship with the bike?
She's having a blast, it's a blast. I follow it almost always, during the winter races, if I'm away for work my wife and son goHowever, I try to be present as much as possible because every one of his races is a great emotion for me.
Did she experience your professional activity?
The last 2-3 years he was quite big, he remembers well the trips with my wife to come and see me. She always wore it, she even came to the last Tour de France I did.Giorgia is a very sporty girl, she enjoys all activities, she follows a lot, I'm obviously pleased that she follows my exploits a little, but cycling has been her passion since she was little.
How do you experience his activity?
I'm happy, I think it's important for her. Cycling has given me so much, and not just in terms of sporting satisfaction. She contributed enormously to my growth and I hope it is the same for her.I admit that in the past I thought cycling wasn't a strictly women's sport, but I've changed my mind. I see it as an important factor in her growth.
In what terms?
Sport teaches us that in life there are rules to follow and respect, that if you want to achieve a goal you must be ready to sacrifice yourself, without ifs or buts. I really wanted Giorgia to play sports, so that she didn't end up like many others her age in front of the TV or playing video games.The important thing is that, at his age, he continues to see this activity as fun. Then, if he wants to persist, he will have our full support, but things will get more serious.
Is the fact that he cycles also a source of concern, given the many accidents on the roads?
The thought is there, I can't deny it, and the fact that he's dedicated to cyclocross, therefore in a restricted area and in complete safety, makes me really happy. I must say that the team follows them with great attention when the guys train on the road, but the anxiety remains. Giorgia told me that after cyclocross she wants to do mountain biking and this consoles me, she knows that on the road the dangers are just around the corner and for now she doesn't feel like itShe still has to follow her instincts and do what she feels like; forcing her wouldn't be right. When she goes out to train alone, I worry, even though she always takes back roads with little traffic, and I follow her when I can.
How much has your approach to cycling changed since you were his age?
A lot. For example, I didn't have anyone who took me to races or watched the races with me on TV. Now, however, we're a close-knit family who go to the races. Giorgia often comes with me, gets on the team bus, gets to know all the guys, talks to themThis also helps her understand my work and helps her socialize, even deepening her knowledge of languages. One thing I've always told her is that cycling has allowed me to meet people from all over the world, to learn about different cultures, and to broaden my horizons.
Now that the road season is starting, you'll have less time to follow it...
That's true, but with the team we've developed a program that also allows us sporting directors to have time to be at home and maintain a certain balance.
You said it's still just a game for now: do you have the impression it will continue down this path?
Knowing her stubbornness, yes. She's already very attentive to everything related to her activity, from stretching to nutrition. When she comes with the team, she checks out everything they're doing, asking curious questions. It's also clear that she's at an age where things change overnight, her first loves arrive, and she loses interest. However, I let her do it, I have a lot of trust in her company and in how it is managed and I look from the outside with the love of a parent, without giving advice.. He knows that if he needs me, I'm there...
