Contador 2010

[thehog]

http://iamspecialized.com/road/news-article/live-astana-press-conference-1-14-2010

A few interesting points from the conference: Contador thinks that teaming up with Alexander Vinokourov in the Tour could produce superior tactics, and that riding bikes by the same maker as those used by some of his strongest competitors - for instance, the Schlecks - could have tactical advantages as well.

He also revealed that he is considering riding the Tour of Missouri again next September.

 

[Bike Boy]

You must have forgotten that Armstrong made his announcement of landing Radio Shack as the sponsor for HIS new team near the end of the Tour.

Probably. thanks for notifying me

 

[Bike Boy]

Being the strongest in the mountains doesn't make a rider "superhuman". Would that also make Andy Schleck almost "superhuman" and Armstrong "superhuman" for doing what he did at his age? The implications aren't exactly complimentary.

Maybe that was an unfortunate way to put it. By superhuman i didn't mean to imply anything.

Instead of using the phrase superhuman it would probably make more sense simply to state: being strong enough to fend of any opposition with ease.

 

[Publicus]

Contador says he's STRONGER

I haven't had a chance to watch the video to see his full response, but here's Velonews' write up of a portion of his interview:

http://velonews.competitor.com/2010/01/news/contador-“stronger-than-last-year”_102411


I especially liked this quote:

I see the power in my computer, and I see also (the power) of the last year, and this year is better,” said a relaxed Contador while mixing English and Spanish. Contador didn’t get into training specifics that could have resulted in the power increase, but he did allude to his change in bikes (from Trek to Specialized).

“The main differences that I’ve noticed are that it (S-Works Tarmac SL3) seems like a much stiffer bike — so much so, that it can take a couple of days to get used to it.” Contador also mentioned that his bike “feels” shorter, and that he’s been surprised by how well it handles on descents.

 

[Anonymous]

I haven't had a chance to watch the video to see his full response, but here's Velonews' write up of a portion of his interview:

http://velonews.competitor.com/2010/01/news/contador-“stronger-than-last-year”_102411


I especially liked this quote:

I was just going to link to that, and praise VeloNews for it, but I'll add the link to some nice pics from camp complete with the built-up new bike and scenery.
http://velonews.competitor.com/2010...kes-on-display-at-astana-training-camp_102395

The press conference was decent. It's good that Specialized is making the effort to do that sort of thing, add closed captioning to youtube videos in English, etc. Alberto needs to learn to pause when giving long answers in Spanish so the translator doesn't have to summarize what he can remember, but the atmosphere was good for a relatively informal group. The guy from Road Bike Action went along on the bikes this morning, so I hope it turns into an article.

I saw another article in Spanish early that talks about doing quality training because he only rode criteriums after the Tour so needed extra after so many months away from racing. He also said that if things go well at Pais Vasco, he might ride some classics (of the 3 that follow). Also, he'll go to Belgium in February to train on cobbles.

http://www.diariovasco.com/20100115/deportes/ciclismo/julio-respondera-equipo-20100115.html

 

[thehog]

Thanks. Lance must be spewing with all those close up shots of the Zipp wheels!

I was just going to link to that, and praise VeloNews for it, but I'll add the link to some nice pics from camp complete with the built-up new bike and scenery.
http://velonews.competitor.com/2010...kes-on-display-at-astana-training-camp_102395

The press conference was decent. It's good that Specialized is making the effort to do that sort of thing, add closed captioning to youtube videos in English, etc. Alberto needs to learn to pause when giving long answers in Spanish so the translator doesn't have to summarize what he can remember, but the atmosphere was good for a relatively informal group. The guy from Road Bike Action went along on the bikes this morning, so I hope it turns into an article.

I saw another article in Spanish early that talks about doing quality training because he only rode criteriums after the Tour so needed extra after so many months away from racing. He also said that if things go well at Pais Vasco, he might ride some classics (of the 3 that follow). Also, he'll go to Belgium in February to train on cobbles.

http://www.diariovasco.com/20100115/deportes/ciclismo/julio-respondera-equipo-20100115.html

 

[python]

i took from the press conference:

(i) berto’s english is not as bad as it was reported.
(ii) soft spoken and at no time he was self centered or arrogant
(iii) at no time i thought his answers were impulsive - hes a thinking chap
(iv) noncommittal answers indicate he knows how to keep his cards close to his chest (whos your main rival? who is the best young rider? is armstrong watching you now…”I don‘t know“)
(v) the guy is very aware and focused (bits about power, equipment specifics, racing schedule…)

Lance has something to learn from berto - a lesson on humility.

oh and it turns out berto also has a foundation and is helping young children with brain illness that cripple him once. he keeps it low key apparently.

 

[thehog]

ioh and it turns out berto also has a foundation and is helping young children with brain illness that cripple him once. he keeps it low key apparently.

From MARCA:

Alberto Contador played Papa Noel to children at Southeast Hospital in Arganda (Madrid) today, bringing gifts and autographed photos to little ones and spreading Christmas cheer to parents, medical personnel and administration.

Alberto toured the pediatric and neonatal units, accompanied by hospital administrators. He made slow progress through the facility, being approached by so many admirers that the tour was, according to a press release by the hospital, “more difficult to complete than any of the stages in the Alps that he enjoys each summer.”

The hospital went on to say that “the best cyclist in the world didn’t hesitate to respond with humor and sensitivity, and left no kiss unbestowed and no autograph unsigned.”

This is the third year running for Alberto, the reigning Tour de France champion, to serve ex officio as Santa Claus. He visited Getafe after winning his first Tour in 2007, and Valdemoro after winning the Giro and the Vuelta in 2008. He now considers the service an annual tradition

 

[Angliru]

Probably. thanks for notifying me

Anytime.

 

[Polish]

oh and it turns out berto also has a foundation and is helping young children with brain illness that cripple him once. he keeps it low key apparently.

Starting a Foundation - kudos to Alberto!

But how long before Kimmage becomes fed up with Operation Puerto and accuses Alberto of being "wrapped up in this great cloak, the great brain illness martyr…this is what he hides behind all the time. The great man who conquered an aneurism."

Greg LeMond should have been at Alberto's "Press Conference" yesterday along with Kimmage. VO2 max questions, Verbier questions, etc. Fight the good fight guys!

 

[flicker]

I could not watch the press conference as it caused my computer to crash.

However I totally respect Alberto, I like how he handles himself, with style and grace. Great to see in a public figure /athlete.

I would prefer to see his sponsers hire professionals to handle his news conferences. I don't have patience to watch poorly produced interviews.

Also in the future I would prefer Alberto to speak in his native Castillian with captions in English translations underneath.

Alberto seems honest and clear about his intentions. I support him 100o/o.
He is a deserving Tour de France champion.

 

[Anonymous]

Bike Radar has a nice story about the Astana bikes.

Specialized staff on hand in Calpe received feedback from Contador and his personal mechanic, Faustino Munoz, and have hinted that their suggestions, along with feedback from Saxo Bank, will be incorporated into a new bike that will be introduced at the Tour. Given the relative newness and still-limited availability of the Shiv TT bike, this likely means a new iteration of the Tarmac.

“It’s great to be working with guys who have been on different bikes,” said Chris D’Aluisio, director of advanced research and development at Specialized. “It’s a different set of eyes, different feedback. We’ve been extremely impressed so far, and we hope this is the start of a long-term relationship.”

http://www.bikeradar.com/news/article/astanas-specialized-s-works-tarmac-sl3-24663

VeloNews is adding to coverage every day. Today it was a chat with Vino.

“I will be at 100 percent, riding for Alberto at the Tour de France. As for me, I will do the best I can at the Giro de Italia.”

When pressed about his Tour ambitions, Vino made it clear that an overall Tour bid is not a part of the plan. “I’d like to win a stage this year or maybe next year,” he added.

http://velonews.competitor.com/2010/01/news/vinokourov-content-with-tour-stage-win_102429

Brad Roe rode with Contador on Thursday.

For those who only know Alberto Contador as a rider in opposition to Lance Armstrong, there is much more to his story: His comeback from a brain injury in 2004 that almost ended his career. His hero status in Spain and his work with children outside of Madrid. At 27 years-old, he has one every Grand Tour and is not hoping to whip his new Astana teammates into shape to defend his Tour de France title. On a personal note, he's focused and intense, but humble, smiles a great deal and laughs easily.

http://www.roadbikeaction.com/fly.aspx?layout=content&taxid=74&cid=2697

Added Saturday:
Contador was interviewed by AS.com. This via Google Translate:

Have you studied English to meet the foreign media?

Yes, but I've only been to four classes. Gotta find a hole to sink more elbows. If my teacher saw how I speak, they would pull their hair out.

Do you feel relieved without Armstrong?

Now I will be more focused on the bike. The theme of our rivalry will take to what newspapers want to talk.

[

B]When can two great in the same season?[/B]

You can dispute that this year's Vuelta. If not, in 2011, safe and without fail, I will take two: the Tour, Giro and Vuelta. It depends on how the calendar approach.

http://www.as.com/ciclismo/articulo...-correr-vuelta/dasclm/20100116dasdaicic_1/Tes

 

[Bike Boy]

Nice little press conference. The question I enjoyed the most:

Do you think Lance is watching this?

Hilarious. Although it would help a lot if he improves his English.

 

[Anonymous]

Nice little press conference. The question I enjoyed the most:



Hilarious. Although it would help a lot if he improves his English.

So, you stopped by just to mention Lance's name again and insult Contador for not being fluent in a second language. Why does it bother you so much that a pro-Contador thread exists where his fans can share information? Back on the ignore list you go, as the last post was the equivalent of taking your dog to the neighbor's yard to poop.

 

[Bike Boy]

So, you stopped by just to mention Lance's name again and insult Contador for not being fluent in a second language. Why does it bother you so much that a pro-Contador thread exists where his fans can share information? Back on the ignore list you go, as the last post was the equivalent of taking your dog to the neighbor's yard to poop.

Ha Ha you are a fun dude. You read too much into it. If you realise that, then you would also realise that there is no provocation implied.

Lucky for me I don't care about whether or not I'm on your ignore list. that's your decision.

have a good day though

 

[Publicus]

Google Translate does a decent job with this interview with AC and a brief quote from Martinelli:

http://www.as.com/ciclismo/articulo/ciclismo-tour-descarto-correr-vuelta/dasclm/20100116dasdaicic_1/Tes

And Martinelli:

http://www.as.com/ciclismo/articulo/ciclismo-recuerda-pantani-facil-pedalea/dasclm/20100116dasdaicic_3/Tes

Love that he compares him to Pantani (the ease with which he works the pedals) and that he's challenging AC to beat Pantani's times up some of the bigger climbs. At least that's what I gleaned from the translation. My Spanish is not so good. It looks like he (Martinelli) is looking for ways to motivate AC to be the best--which is a good thing.

 

[hfer07]

Google Translate does a decent job with this interview with AC and a brief quote from Martinelli:

http://www.as.com/ciclismo/articulo/ciclismo-tour-descarto-correr-vuelta/dasclm/20100116dasdaicic_1/Tes

And Martinelli:

http://www.as.com/ciclismo/articulo/ciclismo-recuerda-pantani-facil-pedalea/dasclm/20100116dasdaicic_3/Tes

Love that he compares him to Pantani (the ease with which he works the pedals) and that he's challenging AC to beat Pantani's times up some of the bigger climbs. At least that's what I gleaned from the translation. My Spanish is not so good. It looks like he (Martinelli) is looking for ways to motivate AC to be the best--which is a good thing.

thanks for the links-
*very Interesting when bertie mentioned bruyneel having talked to him to wish him happy holidays.. - It's logical since both live in Madrid, but according to the media, their "fraternity" was totally broken when they sailed apart....
*Exiting to read that Martinelli is motivating AC to go for the double GT this year & in the future intent either Giro & TDF or TDF Vuelta, instead of concentrating exclusively in the tour...

 

[mr. tibbs]

Ha Ha you are a fun dude. You read to much into it. If you realise that, then you would also realise that there is no provocation implyied.

Lucky for me I don't care about whether or not I'm on your ignore list. thats your decision.

have a good day though

Normally, I'm not one of these angry online grammar gnomes, but, since you just suggested that a Spaniard should learn better English...

"You read too much into it."

"[...] no provocation implied."

"That's your decision."

I'm not saying I have perfect grammar--especially when posting on teh interwebz. I make sǝʞɐʇsıɯ all the time. So does Contador. So do you.

I don't really care about it, and Contador's speaking his second language. What's your excuse? (Bearing in mind that you just criticized someone else for their usage.)

 

[Bike Boy]

Normally, I'm not one of these angry online grammar gnomes, but, since you just suggested that a Spaniard should learn better English...

"You read too much into it."

"[...] no provocation implied."

"That's your decision."

I'm not saying I have perfect grammar--especially when posting on teh interwebz. I make sǝʞɐʇsıɯ all the time. So does Contador. So do you.

I don't really care about it, and Contador's speaking his second language. What's your excuse? (Bearing in mind that you just criticized someone else for their usage.)

Be nice it is saturday

Don't worry I will correct my lousy grammar for you.
Anyway this is too silly. Let's move on people

Have a nice weekend everybody

 

[Anonymous]

I was just looking through some press releases from this time last year at Contador's website. The question of racing some classics keeps coming up, and he's mentioned the possibility again this year. Apparently the possibility is there for Fleche Wallone & Liege Bastogne Liege. And it comes down to how he feels at the end of Pais Vasco - he either goes into recovery mode before the big build-up to the Tour, or if he still feels fresh, he can extend the first part of his season for fifteen days. I guess it's just tough to do that for two days of racing, but once he trains on the cobbles in February, this year might be different. He has also said before that the classics are something he wants to do when he's more physically mature.

 

[Anonymous]

Google Translate does a decent job with this interview with AC and a brief quote from Martinelli:

http://www.as.com/ciclismo/articulo/ciclismo-tour-descarto-correr-vuelta/dasclm/20100116dasdaicic_1/Tes

And Martinelli:

http://www.as.com/ciclismo/articulo/ciclismo-recuerda-pantani-facil-pedalea/dasclm/20100116dasdaicic_3/Tes

Love that he compares him to Pantani (the ease with which he works the pedals) and that he's challenging AC to beat Pantani's times up some of the bigger climbs. At least that's what I gleaned from the translation. My Spanish is not so good. It looks like he (Martinelli) is looking for ways to motivate AC to be the best--which is a good thing.

Thanks for the links - I hadn't seen the Martinelli one. I think that's part of the reason that this year will be so interesting to follow - the new relationships built between Contador and the new staff and teammates while working towards common goals and a successful team. Every day they train together in camp, every day they race together, or put in a strong day of racing apart, will make them stronger and more confident in things like being able to go for it at the Vuelta after giving everything for the Tour. Martinelli obviously appreciates the position he's in.

Everyone please keep the links coming.

 

[Anonymous]

Well according to his biggest critic he has the mental strength of a champion:

The Team Sky sports director on duty in Adelaide is Sean Yates, who mentored the young Armstrong at the Motorola team, and who joined Brailsford's squad from Astana, where he had a ringside seat as Contador and Armstrong fell out during last year's Tour. Yates suggested that the Spaniard, who prevailed in their battle last year and is most people's favourite to do so again this year, has "a lot of Lance-like traits".

It was an observation that might, during his seven-year reign as Tour champion, have riled him, but the new, more mellow Armstrong seemed unruffled, although his response was revealing in its own way. "Perhaps Sean was talking about the fact that he's a strong character," said Armstrong. "Mentally, he's almost unbreakable. There were times in the Tour last summer where you thought he had to be fragile mentally because of things that were [going on] in the race... And people thought: this guy's going to crack. And he never did. He was always tough the next day. He's a very strong young man."

It sounded suspiciously as though a strategy of Armstrong's had been – as it was in his seven Tour wins – to "break" his biggest rival mentally, despite the fact they were on the same team. With that no longer the case, the gloves can perhaps come off.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/sport/2010/jan/16/cycling-lance-armstrong-team-sky

I think this confirms what we all suspected.

 

[Señor_Contador]

Last year it was alll about beating the legend.

This year we're going to put him in the coffin and ship his a$$ home.

Along with Leipheimer.

By the time both realise what has been done onto them they'll need a psychological bailout from Oprah and Dr. Phil.

They must pay. And pay they will.

 

[Anonymous]

I don't recall if I mentioned it at this thread, but Contador has an official youtube website now. The first few posted from training camp were kind of (OK, very) pedestrian, but the new one of Alberto and the team out training has music and everything. High quality video too.
http://www.youtube.com/user/albertocontador0com#p/u/0/mTd6CDQQfng

Also, I don't recall where, but in the past two days I saw a quote that Alberto would like to ride the classics "to honor the sport".

He also did an exclusive interview with RMC:
http://www.rmc.fr/edito/sport/100376/contador-andy-schleck-sera-mon-principal-rival/

 

[ratatata]

Nice interview
http://www.albertocontador.com/prensa.detalle.php?id=291