Cannondale Quick Questions: Jean-Marc Marino

Jean-Marc Marino is the only French rider in the Cannondale Pro Cycling squad but he seems to have settled into the extended Italian family just fine. We caught up with him recently to pose a few questions.

G4: Where are you based?

JMM: I come from the Toulouse area but I now live and train near Barcelona. I love the beach life and the cost of living is lower in Spain than in France.

G4: What would you have done if you hadn’t become a professional cyclist?

JMM: A gigolo! I’d have married a rich woman.

G4: [I’m thinking he’s far too young to have seen Richard Gere in American Gigolo? – Ed] So what do you plan to do after your cycling career?

JMM:  Become an aromatherapist like my girlfriend.

G4: As a professional rider, you spend a lot of time chilling. How do you relax?

JMM: I like to listen to music and play computer games.

G4: Before joining Cannondale, you’d only ridden for French squads, what’s been your biggest challenge?

JMM: I need to learn Italian pronto!

G4: What do you miss most when you’re away from home?

JMM: My girlfriend, our friends and flat in Sitges.

G4: What do you do in the off season?

JMM: Beer, beach and sex!

G4: What do you look for in your team casual wear?

JMM: Above all it must be comfortable and stylish. I think it’s great we get new t-shirts for key races. I really like the G4 kit. It’s the best I’ve had during my career. [The cheque’s in the post! – Ed]

G4: What are you going to tell your grandchildren about your days as a professional cyclist?

JMM: It was a lot of fun. I did what I wanted to do and they should try to do the same.

G4: Are there any things you typically avoid eating to remain at your ideal racing weight or any dietary tips you’d like to share?

JMM: I generally eat well and even have the occasional glass of wine – everything in moderation.

 G4: If I were to ask your team mates about what you’re like as a room mate, what would they say?

JMM: He’s neat and tidy.

G4: Which race  would most like to win and why?

JMM: Liege-Bastogne-Liege because it’s the oldest and most beautiful of the Classics.

I’m sensing Jean-Marc’s a pretty laid back guy with a great sense of humour, an impression that’s reinforced when we continue the questions tomorrow on video!