The topic of safety and communication between sports directors and riders once in the race is a hot topic. We heard the opinion of History, is that of Gasparotto about the new tools and the methods with which they are used. But what do riders think about radios?
The three-time world champion had underlined how too much communication distracts the rider and at the same time creates enormous stress in the group. Especially among young people who find themselves bombarded with information and thus become overwhelmed by the moment.
The Pellizzari example
Al Tour of the Alps Giulio Pellizzari, on the ramps of Passo Pramadiccio, while he was launching himself into the pursuit of victory, continued to receive encouragement on the radio. We then asked ourselves how this tool is inserted into the life of a young rider.We talk about it with Alessandro Iacchi, born in 1999 and playing for Team Corratec.
«I had time to use the radio with both professionals and under 23s – he tells us – the difference is noticeable. Compared to when it wasn't there, you're much safer in a group. If combined with new technologies (VeloViewer and cycle computers) it facilitates communicationsThe sports director has the opportunity to report dangers at crucial points and vice versa."
How do you teach a young rider how to use this tool?
They explain how it works and how to use it to speak. From a technical point of view it is extremely easy, you press a button and you're in touch with everyone: from sports directors to your teammates.
How do they explain how it works once you're running?
Logically I would say that they teach you how to use it in the important moments of the race. As for us riders, it is used when you get a puncture, you have to go get water or you need to get in touch with a teammate or sports directorIt happened to me a few times that I got a flat tire, the flagship car didn't see you on the side of the road and continued straight on.
You also raced without a radio, the way you interpret the race changes...
Absolutely. Radio reduces communication times, and therefore increases safety. You don't have to go to the car every time to get information and in this way the comings and goings in the group are reduced.
But it increases the nervousness.
This happens because some sports directors use it wrongly in my opinion. With the tools we have we can see everything in real timeCycle computers tell us how long a climb is and what the average gradient is. They also warn us of dangerous curves.
Nowadays, cycle computers tell you every little detail of your route…
True. No technical communications are needed, let's say it's enough to remember that a climb is about to beginThen we'll see the rest for ourselves.
What's the wrong way to use the radio?
When the race becomes a radio commentary, every minute you have a voice in your head telling you something. It eventually becomes annoying, especially when you try to concentrate, whether in sprint or in reading the right moment of the raceIf the sports director talks to me all the time, there's a risk that his voice will become a background noise and, whether you like it or not, you won't hear him anymore.
What do you think is the correct way?
In the most exciting moments of the race, such as when a breakaway forms, the team car immediately tells us who is in the group ahead. This way you can adjust your tactics on the fly.Communication is key there. Another example is when the masseur is at the refreshment point and it starts raining. He can let us know that the weather has changed, and we riders can adjust accordingly.
So, for young people, does the radio become almost stressful?
As mentioned, it depends on how you use the machine. I don't like too much communication, others prefer it instead. However, I feel like saying that sometimes it is important to listen to the group and its noises.
