Calle Friberg a bit of a break a few years ago (2010-11), that after being pro for 9 years, after he came back and seems stronger than ever. Just looking at the National XCO championships he placed third (2013), second (2014) and then took a really impressive victory this year, 2015. This being his first Elite national XCO-gold at the age of 31. Although he won his first Swedish national gold in 1993 in (Age group 10-12 year olds). We reached Calle for a chat in a bit warmer place then Sweden at the moment…
What´s the feeling after the first part of your pre-season?
- Since I ended my season with 2 cyclocross races at the end of october, I have had a bit of a training break in november, but started more serious training in december and I´m feeling better and better. Half of december and the whole january I´ll be in South Africa so I´m hoping the winter training will be a bit less of a struggle…
When and where will you start next seasons racing?
- I´ll do a small road race here in Stellenbosch the 24/1 and then a South African XC Cup the 30/1 before I´ll fly back to Sweden.
Any specific goals for 2016 season that you want to share?
- European XC Champs is for sure one of my goals! As well as Swedish XC Champs and then XC Worlds is another goal, to name a couple.
A European Championships in Sweden next year, homecourt. What´s your thoughts regarding that?
- As I said its one of my big goals for sure. Lets see how the spring goes regarding expectations. Its for sure great for Swedish MTB:ing and I hope we can put on a great show!
You had quite a run the last years after having a bit of a break after being pro for 9 years. Have you since the ”comeback” done things differently, or had another focus/direction in training or racing? Since you have also had a full time job along side the last years of racing.
- Thats correct. Yes well I got motivated again and I wanted to see what I could accomplish. And since then things have played out quite nicely I agree. I´ve been able to put everything I learnt during the years together and got everything out basically. I´ve for sure been training hard but not so many hours as when I was a full time pro. I´ve been forced to train harder and more specific when I do train, no ”fluff”. But still having fun and not taking it too seriously, thats very important too. For me at least.
Good luck to Calle Friberg and Merry Christmas! /Tobias Dahlberg
