Lisban Quintero Interview
CRCA recently spoke with club member Lisban Quintero of Foundation to get his thoughts on racing, training, preparation, and what he has in store for 2009.
CRCA: First and most important question: how do you ride so fast?
Lisban: My father, Eutimio, was and still is a very accomplished racer. I would attribute my ability to a combination of genetics with the technical training one receives at a young age in Colombia.
CRCA: Backing up a bit, how did you first get involved in bike racing?
Lisban: I grew up watching my father race. After he gave me my first bike, racing followed naturally.
CRCA: Can you remember the first race you won?
Lisban: It was my fifth race. I was yet to be categorized as a junior.
CRCA: You’re with Foundation now, correct?
Lisban: Correct.
CRCA: What’s your specific role within the team?
Lisban: I wouldn’t say I have a specific role. We’re a team. We all work together.
CRCA: How far do you think you can go in terms of your racing career?
Lisban: I have hopes of becoming part of a pro team.
CRCA: Which do you like better? Riding with a group or riding alone?
Lisban: Alone. It allows me to focus on my workout.
CRCA: What kind of a race do you dislike? Which kind do you enjoy?
Lisban: There really aren’t any I dislike. Each type of race gives me an opportunity to improve both my strengths and weaknesses.
CRCA: Overall, how do you feel about the club races and the race formats?
Lisban: CRCA is a great organization. I enjoy participating in the club races.
CRCA: Speaking of club racing, at the amateur level, category 5, 4, etc., how much of a difference does equipment make? An 18lb bike compared to a 16lb bike?
Lisban: Two pounds in a bike may not necessarily make a difference, but having the correct and proper fitting equipment does.
CRCA: In your opinion, what do you see amateur racers doing with their bikes that they maybe shouldn’t be doing? Or things they should be doing?
Lisban: Handling is the most important skill a new racer should develop.
CRCA: Favorite cycling celebrity?
Lisban: My dad and Jan Ullrich
CRCA: Favorite on-the-bike snack?
Lisban: Bananas
CRCA: Any pre-race rituals?
Lisban: Drinking a Pony Malta.
CRCA: How many hours a week do you spend on the bike in the off-season? And during the season?
Lisban: I take a complete rest during the off season and do some swimming and running. 15-20 during the season.
CRCA: Do you have a coach or do you just do your own thing?
Lisban: At the moment, I don’t have a coach, but I’m working on that.
CRCA: Any training tips? Sprinting tips?
Lisban: Uphill sprints in lower gears are helpful.
CRCA: What can we expect from Lisban in 2009? Any particular races on which you’ve set your sights?
Lisban: My goal for 2009 is more NRC points. Fitchburg is a favorite race for me this year.