In addition to excelling
in the kitchen, host and chef Louis-François Marcotte started cycling three years ago and participated in the Grand défi Pierre Lavoie with the Quebecor team. Interview.
How long have you been performance cycling?
Louis-François Marcotte : Before, I mainly ran to stay in shape. Three years ago, I drove the Quebecor team's recreational vehicle in the Grand Défi Pierre Lavoie. I really enjoyed the experience and told the team members that I would like to participate the following year. Taking me at my word, Pierre Karl Péladeau contacted me during the winter to invite me to join the team. I then started training to prepare adequately.
How was your experience at the Grand défi Pierre Lavoie?
L.-F. M .: It’s a wonderful and very intense experience! The atmosphere is really friendly, and a great camaraderie and positive energy develop among the cyclists.
What was your training to prepare for the challenge?
L L.-F. M .: During the winter before the challenge, I cycled with Powerwatts in the studio, for an hour, three times a week. I'm not an intense cyclist and I cycle purely for pleasure. This training allowed me to find the necessary motivation... and to complete the challenge!
Have you participated in other cycling events or competitions?
L.-F. M .: I participated in the 80 km Gran Fondo de Tremblant last May. What's good about it is that it allows you to test your physical fitness before another event.
Do you change your diet as such an event approaches?
L.-F. M .: With my job, it's hard to make big changes! However, we have a very healthy daily diet at home, consisting of proteins and vegetables, which doesn't hinder competition. A week before, I try to drink less wine, but that's it.
What equipment do you use?
L.-F. M . : I have a lot of trouble wearing gloves! I mainly use my hands in my job, and it seems like I need to feel like I have a good grip on the handlebars. I also recently got a Garmin GPS that I put on my handlebars, which gives me all sorts of useful information when I'm cycling.
And do you follow professional cycling races?
L.-F. M . : I don't assiduously follow competitions on television... But since I practice the sport, I am more interested in observing the technique and more inclined to understand when I listen to a report on the subject.
How do you find the road conditions for cycling in Montreal?
L.-F. M . : I hate cycling downtown! Not only do I find it dangerous, but the air doesn't do me any good. My pleasure is to ride without interruption, like near the Lachine Canal, close to where I live and where there are no traffic lights or cars.
What other events do you want to participate in in the future?
L.-F. M . : I hope to participate in the Grand Défi Pierre Lavoie again next year. This winter, I will find out if I will join the Quebecor team for the event.