Gilbert Gilbert Gilbert!

Get familiar with this dude. I know I've written a little about him before, but the badass Belgian is more than worth another post.

Call my obsession with Philippe Gilbert what you want. This guy, in my opinion is the BEST rider out there. He attacks and it's always for a win. He races with class and power. Gilbert has been on fire this season and he can ride and beat the best in any situation. Whether it's a sprint, breakaway, up-hill finish, or sufferfest, he'll be there! He is feared and respected in every race he is in. his team works for him knowing he can produce a win and out power, out sprint, out climb, out strategize, and drop the hammer on everyone.

For a longer video of his most recent win: Montepaschi Strade Bianche 2011. True to form, Gilbert attacks at the right moment knowing how strong he is and get's the job done over some really tough competition.

I am channeling this guy's style and grit into my upcoming season. My first win ever came on an attack not unlike some of Philippe's. It was from way out, but no one could respond... other than a teammate and I got the win. It felt amazing and I want to win like that more often.

Thanks for reading about my man-crush.

It Won't Be My Longest

I've just hopped off the bike and finished my longest week of training yet. 17 hours of training done and I feel pretty good about it. I guess I can say it was tough, but with no school work and no other demands of a schedule or responsibility on me, this was not my toughest riding. Four weeks from now will prove tougher. I will have 18 hours of training to complete on top of school work and IUP Cycling Club responsibilities to keep up with.

Competitive cyclists will know that putting in these long hours of training, winter by winter, year by year, are important for success in the season and career. The legs have to go through these easier miles long before the more intense miles of racing. As the season gets closer, of course, more intense workouts will start to creep in and the long hours of easy riding will be more focussed and not as constantly lengthy.

Philippe Gilbert

My next week will be a recovery week of 8.5 hours. My body will enjoy the rest, but I have to keep in touch with my food intake. I want to eat enough, but not as much as I have for this demanding week.

Francesco Chicchi's facebook profile picture

Beyond riding, I have to get a few things sorted out for schools I am interested in going to next year. I really don't know where I will be, but I know I will find a way to keep cycling in the mix. I am very lucky to have it in my life like it is now!