Some things don't change, even if you're an Olympic champion. It was nice to see a few days ago. Jonathan Milan training with his old team, the Cycling Team FriuliAn image of tradition, of friendship and simplicity.
The giant of the Bahrain Victorious he came out the young boys who somehow took his place in the patron team Roberto BressanLet's be clear, Jonathan isn't old! On the contrary... but he was the most experienced in the group that day. Maybe he could tell a story, one of those that captivate: the Olympics, life with champions, long trips around the world...
Jonathan, it's a little strange, isn't it? You, who are still so young, were "the old man" the other day on that outing with your former CTF teammates...
Now that you mention it, it is! It's a little strange, but it's also nice to see these kids grow. Just as it's nice to go out with my brother Matteo.
Did they ask you any specific questions, or spark any curiosity?
When you go out together, you always chat about this and that. Maybe you confide in each other about your goals for the season. Yes, they asked me a few questions, but more about the program, preparation, the position that needs improving... but they were more conversations than questions. If anything they ask me about other riders, starting with Sonny (Colbrelli, ed.), Mohoric, Caruso...
And did they ask you anything about the Olympics?
No, because I had already spoken to many of them., while the new arrivals didn't ask me any questions about Tokyo.
Were you always in the lead or did everyone go around on equal terms?
All on equal terms! Also because these guys are going around so fast. In fact, too fast for this period. In fact, I always told them: "Calm down, guys!"
The CTF is a double home for you: you come from that team and now it's Bahrain's youth team. Have they asked you anything about how things work in the first team?
Something about the retreat. I know the boys will be doing a small training camp in January, but I'm not sure if they'll be coming to Spain to stay at the same hotel as us, although I think so. I'd honestly like to, because I think it's a learning experience for them. I think back to when I was in their position. They see older kids, experience a different environment, and are exposed to a high-level organization that wants to help them grow. Things that, it's worth remembering, the CTF has always done as well. This partnership with my team will take them to a higher level. And in fact, I have to say I'm really happy that my two teams have connected in some way.
In your opinion, how much did it count? Jonathan Milan for this union?
Oh God, I don't know. But I don't think so. TThe guys came before me… And then there are the people on the team, the desire and love they put into carrying the team forward. Passion... Because it's a huge commitment. I believe it's thanks to their expertise.
But on a practical level, how does a release like this come about?
We have our own chat, but still when I go out with them I'm never the only pro. Often someone else is added, including the "Dema", Alessandro De Marchi, who among other things is one of those who studies the tour to do, manages the training… they ask him for advice! Anyway, we'll keep in touch. We know in general that they leave from the "casina" in Udine at 9-9:30. We leave from Buja, more or less at the same time, and we'll meet them. There is a main road that connects Buja to Udine and we cross paths there. If I don't respond to this chat, I'll call my brother and get updated through him.
Will there be a Coca-Cola stop?
On my downtime days, I've always done it with them. Other times, less so. Then, it often happens that I go out alone because I have completely different jobs to do. Maybe I have the gym in the morning or some specific work. That day, however, we did, if I remember correctly, 147 kilometers and 2.800 meters of altitude difference at an average speed of just over 29 km/h. At least I came home with these numbers.
You said earlier, "My brother was there too, it was great." How does that work with him? Do you find yourself acting like a mother hen? Do you take him back?
Ninth… The kids have to have fun. I'm the first one to chat. Then there are the snaps here and there. The important thing is that when it comes time to do the work, we commit ourselves. It takes seriousness. And my brother, like the other boys, is serious. Of course, if I have something to say to Matteo, I'll give him some advice. And most of the time, he accepts it.
