 |
| Le soigneur et le cycliste |
The relationship between the support team and the cyclist has been called into question in recent times. The role of the soigneur has been, traditionally, to ensure that the cyclist is kept in optimum condition to complete the challenges that the tour present him. This may involve providing post stage massage to ensure prevention of injury and rehabilitation. Additionally, the soigneur is responsible for the general health and well-being of the team and does everything from making travel arrangements to arranging post-race nutrition to ease tired bodies. Some soigneurs have developed the role into that of unofficial drug baron ministering to the requirements of their team brought about by the demanding schedule presented by a trek such as the D2D.
Our own personal soigneur revels in this role. At Shandon, he is often called by his pet name, Escobar. When the day's cycling is done, he is first at the bar to obtain stimulants in the form of processed grain. Complement this with his renowned protein replecement therapy and a session in the massage chair for that all over feeling of euphoria. When you are ready to retire for the evening he will make sure you have the necessary nightcap to help with insomnia and when the cock crows he will rouse you with the best that Brazil has to offer and I'm not talking about Pele.
One sugar or two?
LLL
No comments:
Post a Comment