2010 season roundup - Michael Torckler

Sep 2nd, 10. Kiwi international Michael Torckler shares his season roundup with RoadCycling.co.nz. He's back home from Spain and back enjoying Salt and Vinegar chips.

Torckler after winning his first international victory for 2010 (Photo provided)

Torckler's year started with a grand victory.  The Stratford rider won the 2010 Trust House Cycle Classic Tour of Wellington.

Six weeks later he headed to Pamplona, Spain for his second season of international racing.

A day before his 23rd birthday in April, Torckler stood on the top step of the podium once more.  He won a Spanish one day race, part of the Spanish Cup.

One week later he was again in a solo breakaway heading for the finish line. He had attacked on the last, very steep climb, but was caught just 800m before the line.

In May, Torckler shared the less often talked about side of cycling - the bad days.  He competed in two events where freezing weather and a crash meant the Kiwi had two visits to the race ambulance rather than the podium.

In June his luck turned again. He rode aggressively and was rewarded with two podium placings.  One weekend he let his teammate take the victory from their small break group, the next weekend he took the victory himself.

Now Torckler is back home in New Zealand enjoying a well earned rest before he heads into the NZ summer season of racing.

2010 International Season Round-Up

Next races / goals before the end of the international season, if any?
None! Season is pretty much over for me.

Best experience (on or off the bike)?
Being a team leader and having guys sacrifice their race for you is pretty choice. It brings a bit of pressure, and for me is quite humbling.

Did you achieve your goals for the international season?
No, but I am still happy with what I've got from it.

When are you back in NZ, and where will you be?
Back in town already. I will spend most of my time in the 'Naki.

What's the thing you like most about coming home after a season on the road?
Probably just my own bed.

What's the first major Kiwi food addiction you have to quell upon landing?
Salt and Vinegar chips go down good.

What gift did you bring your Mum back?

MP3 player.

What are you goals for the NZ summer season of racing?
Riding fast in some NPS races and the Tour of Southland.

All season round-ups to date: Emma Crum, Ruaraidh McLeod, Michael Torckler, Tom David,  Daniel Barry, Patrick Bevin,  Wade Mangham, Taylor Gunman,  George Bennett, Jason Allen.