.
.
.
#ProfessionalCycling #MonicaTrincaColonel #SanRemoWomen #CyclingJourney #UnexpectedSuccess #WomensCycling #CyclingInspiration #RoadToPro #CyclingTalent #VO2Max #CyclingCareer #BepinkBongioanni #LivAlUla #CyclingProgress #RaceToTheTop
Source link
Monica Trinca Colonel’s journey to professional cycling is anything but conventional. Just two years ago, she was working full-time as an optometrist, far removed from the world of elite racing. Yet on Saturday, she will line up as a contender in the prestigious San Remo Women classic, having already turned heads with a series of impressive performances in her debut season as a professional. Her rapid rise from amateur racing to WorldTour prominence is a remarkable story of perseverance, talent, and seizing opportunities.
### A Unique Path to the Pro Peloton
Trinca Colonel’s early years in cycling were promising. Born in the mountain village of Grosotto, Italy, she began racing at the age of six, competing against future stars like Letizia Paternoster, Elisa Balsamo, and Chiara Consonni. However, shyness, family illness, and personal struggles led her to step away from the sport at just 15 years old. For years, cycling took a backseat in her life.
It wasn’t until much later that she rediscovered her passion for the sport, encouraged by her cycling-enthusiast partner, Alex. Despite working full-time, she began training and competing in amateur events, showcasing her natural talent. A standout moment came in June 2023 when she won the medio fondo at the Sportful Dolomiti Race. This success, combined with a VO2 Max test at the Mapei Center that revealed exceptional physiological potential, marked the turning point in her career.
### A Late Start, A Breakthrough Opportunity
The results of Trinca Colonel’s physiological testing caught the attention of the Bepink – Bongioanni team, which offered her a professional contract for the 2024 season. For Trinca Colonel, this was a life-changing moment. “For me, it was a gift because it was difficult to start again,” she shared. “I was unknown in the cycling world, so for me it was super that Bepink was interested.”
Her rookie season was nothing short of impressive. Despite her lack of experience compared to her peers, she delivered strong results, including fourth overall in the Trofeo Ponente in Rosa, 12th on the final mountain stage of the Vuelta España Femenina, and third overall in the Tour Cycliste Féminin International de l’Ardèche. Her performances demonstrated not only her raw talent but also her ability to compete at the highest level.
### Joining the WorldTour Ranks
Trinca Colonel’s potential did not go unnoticed. Marco Pinotti, Sport Engineering Director of GreenEdge Cycling (which includes the Jayco AlUla and Liv AlUla teams), was among those impressed by her abilities. “She has the physique of a complete rider,” Pinotti said. “Her VO2 max values are in line for a climber or a GC rider.”
In late 2024, Trinca Colonel signed with Liv AlUla, marking her transition to the WorldTour level. Her debut with the team at the UAE Tour Women in February 2024 was a resounding success. She finished fourth on the challenging Jebel Hafeet summit finish, just 38 seconds behind stage winner Elisa Longo Borghini, and secured fourth overall in the general classification. This performance solidified her status as a rising star in the peloton.
### Building Momentum in 2024
Trinca Colonel’s strong form has continued throughout the 2024 season. She improved her result in Strade Bianche Donne from 38th in 2023 to 11th this year and finished eighth in the Trofeo Alfred Binda. Her consistent performances have made her a key rider for Liv AlUla and a dark horse for upcoming races, including the San Remo Women classic.
Pinotti, who has been working closely with Trinca Colonel to accelerate her development, is optimistic about her future. “She has got pretty good skill, at least individually,” he noted. “I think she has room for improvement. Right now she is good. Probably she can be a top ten contender for stage races in GC.”
### A Bright Future Ahead
Trinca Colonel’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and self-belief. Her rapid ascent from amateur racing to WorldTour success is a rarity in professional cycling, where most riders follow a more traditional path of gradual progression. Yet her natural talent, combined with her determination to make up for lost time, has set her apart.
Looking ahead, Trinca Colonel has set ambitious goals for herself. “I hope to do something special in a grand tour,” she said. “I hope perhaps I can get a top ten. I don’t know in which grand tour, but I hope for that. And I also want to help my teammates.”
Her journey is far from over. With the support of her team and the guidance of experienced professionals like Pinotti, Trinca Colonel has the potential to become one of the sport’s top riders. Her story serves as an inspiration to anyone who has ever doubted their ability to achieve their dreams, proving that it’s never too late to chase greatness.
As she continues to gain experience and refine her skills, the cycling world will be watching closely to see just how far Monica Trinca Colonel can go.
