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CASTELLI Cycling Podcast
JUSTINE GHEKIERE | A Belgian Star on the Rise
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In this episode, we sit down with Belgian female pro-cyclist Justine Ghekiere. She shares her remarkable journey, from discovering eRacing during the COVID pandemic to making her mark in the women's professional peloton. Justine's story is a testament to the rapid pace of her rise in the cycling world, her obsession with indoor training, and the mental grit that fuels her passion for the sport.
Join us as we delve into Justine's love for climbing, her favorite rides when she's come in Flanders and to Calpe in Spain, and the training routines that have shaped her career. She also reveals her challenges in positioning within the peloton and sprinting, her thrilling experience racing in Italy, and her favorite foods. Justine's story is a powerful reminder of the dedication and perseverance it takes to succeed at the highest levels of the sport.
Whether you're a cycling enthusiast or inspired by tales of hard work and achievement, this episode offers a compelling look at what it takes to climb to the top—literally and figuratively.
CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
03:08 Justine Ghekiere's Inspiring Journey
04:29 From Lockdown to Professional Cyclist
08:39 Riding around Calpe, Spain
11:12 Not fan of cobbles, and favorite rides
13:14 Fueling the Ride: Justine Ghekiere's Favorite Belgian Dish
15:05 Chasing Dreams, first race and training routine
18:49 Justine's experience at the Giro d'Italia Women 2023
19:22 Ending
– GUEST –
Justine Ghekiere, a Belgian cyclist with AG Insurance - Soudal, transitioned to professional cycling after discovering Zwift during the lockdown. A former physical education teacher and coach, she quickly rose through the ranks, winning her first virtual race. Justine’s love for sushi, pizza, and radio hits fuels her journey in the peloton.
CONNECT
– HOST –
Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has worked for this iconic brand since 2006. He usually rides backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso.
CONNECT
SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS
If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to podcast@castelli-cycling.com
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38:05|Today's guest is truly inspiring—a superstar admired by millions of fans. We’re joined by NBA Hall of Famer and Olympian Reggie Miller. While Reggie is widely known for his legendary basketball career, today we’ll discuss his love for mountain biking and gravel riding, the cycling community, his missioan to boost diversity in the sport, and his passion for getting more kids and people of color involved. We’ll also explore his efforts to make cycling more accessible for everyone.Joining Reggie is Matt Lieto, a world-famous athlete who has competed in several Ironman World Championships and races like the Unbound 200, and now shares his insights as a coach, podcaster, and commentator.The interview was recorded during the world-class gravel event, SBT GRVL, in and around beautiful Steamboat Springs, in CO. We're sure you'll enjoy this one, so sit back, relax and kick your feet up!CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Opportunity13:28 Mission to Boost Diversity in Cycling22:10 Reggie Miller's Personal Journey in Cycling27:32 Favorite Bikes and Riding Locations34:40 The Importance of Community and Support– GUEST –Reggie Miller, one of the greatest shooters in NBA history, spent his entire 18-year career with the Indiana Pacers, where he became the franchise’s all-time leading scorer. Known for his incredible three-point shooting and clutch performances, Reggie was a five-time NBA All-Star and left a lasting legacy, especially with his unforgettable rivalry against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. He’s the guy who could silence an entire arena with a single shot. And if you’re a Knicks fan, you probably still have some feelings about him! After hanging up his jersey in 2005, Reggie moved on to become a successful sports commentator, continuing to leave his mark on the game he loves. CONNECThttps://www.instagram.com/reggiemillertnt/Dropping Dimes Foundation: https://droppingdimes.org – CO-HOST –Matt Lieto is a professional triathlete, coach, and commentator, known for his expertise in Ironman competitions. Despite starting his athletic journey later, he became a respected figure in the sport. Today, Matt is a well-regarded coach and mentor to athletes of all levels, and he’s a familiar voice in the endurance sports world as a commentator for major triathlon events, including Ironman. His approachable style and in-depth analysis have made him a favorite among fans and athletes alike.CONNECT https://www.instagram.com/mattlieto/ SEND US YOUR QUESTIONS If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to podcast@castelli-cycling.com
JOÃO PAULO DE OLIVEIRA | Super GT Racing, Tokyo Climbs, How to Stay Fit for Motorsports
01:19:47|Join us for a thrilling episode of the Castelli Podcast with João Paulo de Oliveira, a Brazilian racing ace in Japan's Super GT scene. Discover how João uses cycling to stay fit and explore the parallels between these two high-demand sports.Learn how cycling not only keeps João in peak condition but also allows him to explore Japan’s stunning landscapes, from the bustling streets of Tokyo to serene countryside routes and the iconic climb up Mount Fuji.Whether you’re into road cycling, curious about the high-tech world of Super GT, or someone who appreciates the finer things in life—like scenic bike routes, Tokyo’s cycling culture and delicious Japanese food— this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for an inspiring and dynamic conversation!CHAPTERS00:40 Introduction and Preview04:46 João's Passion for Cycling07:12 Getting Out of Tokyo, Exploring Japan by Bike 10:22 Favorite Climbs Outside of Tokyo15:30 Car Racing vs Cycling 16:40 João's Racing Journey and Move to Japan28:12 Super GT and its Unique Features41:18 The Importance of the Driver-Engineer Relationship 43:21 The Mental Toughness Required in Elite Sports46:42 Dedication and Commitment49:16 Cycling is a Lifestyle and Life Lessons 50:37 Training and Rest for Peak Performance55:58 Training G-Force 01:01:12 Nutrition, Physio01:06:35 The Joy of Living and Cycling in Japan01:10:03 The Connection Between Car Handling and Bike Handling01:15:48 Specialized Ambassador 01:16:51 Story Behind A Unique Piece of Race Car Art01:18:11 Ending– GUEST –João Paulo Lima de Oliveira is a Brazilian race car driver competing in the Japanese Super GT series. He won the Super GT GT300 class championship in 2020 and 2022, and the Formula Nippon championship in 2010. JP, as he is known, is one of the most successful drivers in Japan over the last decade, with victories in every category he’s competed in. After dominating German F3 in 2003, he moved to Japan in 2004, winning the Japanese F3 title the following year. He then spent 13 years as a factory driver for Nissan in Super GT and Super Formula, renowned for his speed and car development skills.CONNECTInstagramSTRAVAA Beginners Guide To Super GTMotorsports.com– HOST –Søren Jensen, Global Marketing Manager at Castelli, has worked for this iconic brand since 2006. He usually rides backroads and dirt trails, testing new gear in the Italian Dolomites. If you can't find him there, check the Castelli Headquarters in Fonzaso.CONNECT LinkedInSEND US YOUR QUESTIONS If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to podcast@castelli-cycling.com
RECAP | Nutrition Strategies for Fueling Everyday Performance
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SOIGNEUR | The Most Crucial Job in Cycling
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TOUR DE FRANCE | A Brief History of the Race 💛
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PRESS OFFICER | WorldTour Communication Coach and Storyteller
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