Bastien Tronchon, a slightly mischievous angelic face, a 21-year-old «youngster» who is starting his professional career with the team this year. He has won from his first race, so quickly that he burst onto the scene before viewers even had time to get to know him. To remedy this, we went to see him at his home this spring to give him the opportunity to introduce himself to the team's fans.
If you had to describe yourself to people who don't know you, what words would you use?
I would say that I am generous, obsessive... um... not very sociable? Well, at first glance, anyway, not very sociable! What else could I say? I love nature.
What do you do in your spare time when you're not cycling?
I'm a student, for starters. That takes up a lot of time! 😬 Family, too. I'm close to my family, so I like to spend what little time I have with them or my girlfriend. Otherwise, I like adrenaline-fuelled activities. I like anything that's a bit «crazy». Cars, via ferrata, things that are a bit «risky». And adrenaline, There may also be some on the bicycle...
What about studies?
I'm in my final year of STAPS at Le Bourget. Normally, I'll get my degree and then I'll be done with STAPS. I'm thinking of continuing with nutrition, but remotely. That way, I'll have peace of mind for training, internships, races... Because this last year has been a bit tough with cycling.
What is important to you in a cycling team?
I think the team should listen to the riders, and everyone should enjoy themselves. Even when it hurts, everyone should enjoy themselves. I think that's the most important thing, because when you're enjoying yourself, I find you progress much faster.
What is your cycling background? At what age did you start?
I started when I was nine years old at the Motte-Servolex club (in Savoie). The Motte club is very family-oriented, with regular outings with friends on Wednesdays and Saturdays. That's how I quickly developed a taste for cycling. [video: when Bastien opens his box of memories]
And then, thanks to my good performances, I was able to join the U19 team at the AG2R-Citroën training centre. We were always pushed to do our best, always in a positive dynamic. And then it continued with the U23 training centre.
When it comes to professionals, I've always found a family atmosphere. There's never been too much adversity between the guys on the team, and that's what's nice because we don't «go to war» with each other.
What are your career goals? What would make you truly happy?
I don't have any particular race that I dream of winning because all the races are great at the professional level, but I just dream of winning. Just the feeling of winning, I think it's crazy. It's amazing. I want to win as many races as possible. Then, of course, victories in France, for example in the Tour de France, I think that's something special.
Do you discuss it with the other runners?
Um... no. They often talk about how they won, but they don't explain how they felt or everything that went on behind the scenes. We rarely talk about that.
Modesty in victory?
Yeah, almost!
And so, looking even further ahead, what would you like to do after your career? Have you thought about that yet?
Yes, yes, I've already thought about that: I dream of opening a café! A café a bit like a «cyclist's café» or a «coffee shop» but open to everyone. There are some in the Annecy area, but not really around Lake Bourget. I hope that by then, there still won't be any. 😅
What is your fondest memory on a bicycle?
I think it was my victory in Burgos. My victory in Burgos last year, my first professional victory. I wasn't there for that at all. I wasn't expecting it at all. I knew I was in good shape, but it was my first race with the pros. I was amazed when I saw the guys next to me at the start. I think I'll remember it for the rest of my life. When I look at the images again, I get goosebumps.
Is there a KOM that you hold and don't want to give up?
Haha, yes, there is one, it's in Aix-les-Bains. There's a hill we call the «Poggio» among ourselves. And there's a KOM, I really pushed myself to get it. I think it will take me a while to beat it, if I ever do. And anyone reading this article who wants to try to take it from me is welcome to give it a go!
The challenge is a gift: https://www.strava.com/segments/18901368
Something a cyclist should never do?
Wear low socks during training. 🤣
For those who may not have understood:
@ag2rcitroenteam There are some things you just don't do, according to @Bastien Tronchon 🤣
