In the Italian delegation that has been busy since yesterday in Luoyang at the Junior Track World Championships, there is also a son of art: Julian Bortolami, son of Gianluca who was one of the pillars of that Mapei team that dominated in the classics and who now acts as sporting director at Pool Cantù where his son also runs. Julian is one of the many guys who does both track and road racing. and so far his best results have come from the velodrome.
One might think that his penchant for indoor rehearsals is something that goes against the family tradition but this is not the case: «My dad also did track activities but few people remember it, because he did it when he was very young, when he was still far from turning pro. But he always enjoyed that activity and recommended it to me because it was very useful even for those who are making their way.
How much did your father's experience influence your choice of career?
A little, watching his races. I was too young to remember when he ran, but through Youtube and other social media I saw what he was capable of and what he did. But he never forced me, on the contrary, he let every decision be autonomous.I started with G4, then little by little passion took over and so I continued.
And when did you start on the track?
From rookie 1st year. Honestly, the first few times I didn't really like it, but then it got to me more and more. I have to say that I have a lot of fun on the ring, even more than on the road, especially in the points race, which is my favorite and where I won silver at the last European Championships.
On the road, what kind of rider are you? Do you remember your father?
In some ways, yes, I too am set up as a long-distance rider. I'm not very fast, but on the climbs I can keep up the pace quite easilyI often look for breakaways, both from afar and trying to make a breakthrough in the final kilometers. From what I saw, it was a bit like my dad's way of racing, but on a much different level.
Does your father follow you and advise you?
Sometimes he happens to be the sports director of the races I run in, but he makes absolutely no difference between me and the others. He leaves me quite free, the only thing he always stresses is using your head before your legs, because races are played first and foremost from a tactical point of view and that's what we need to work on.
How do you rate your season?
I haven't run much, this year I've focused more on the track as I had to prepare for the title races. I also started well with some placings, but overall I can't say I'm very satisfied.Good results have arrived, especially from the team time trials, proving that I can have my say on pace and be of help, but I would have liked something more, even though it's only my first year.
What are your expectations for the World Cup?
It's clear that after what happened in the continental event I aim to repeat myself in the points race, then we'll see what specialties the city Salvoldi has He'll want me to do it. I left for China with high hopes, though. We'll see what happens, but I'm optimistic.
Do you have a dream that you've put aside, perhaps more related to the road?
First of all, I would like to complete the whole journey and then become a professional, and then have the chance to win a major classic. My dream is the Tour of Flanders, to do what my father did in 2001It would really be a great coup…
