- What is 4Cross and how did you get into 4Cross?
4Cross is a mountain bike racing discipline in which four riders compete simultaneously on a downhill course filled with obstacles. The two fastest riders advance to the next round in a knockout format.
In 2003, I more or less spontaneously went to a race in Pirmasens without knowing what to expect. I just wanted to try it out and compete against others. Since I've always been more of a competitive type, I thought it might be fun.
That's exactly what happened and I was infected.
- How do you train or prepare for a 4Cross race?
Essentially, you can't say there's a specific training regimen. You have to be a complete athlete, both technically and physically.
Spending plenty of time on the bike helps hone your technique; the rest is about basic endurance, explosive power, the will to win, and practicing your starts. A good start is half the battle in 4-cross.
- What are the dangers and limitations of this sport?
The obvious danger lies in the fact that four crazy people are trying to reach the finish line as quickly as possible at the same time. This often leads to crashes and injuries. Even mistakes can't be ruled out when riding at the limit, leading to crashes.
The boundaries are constantly being pushed, the tracks have become increasingly extreme, faster, and the jumps longer over the years. Where this will lead is anyone's guess.
- What were your best moments in 4Cross? What do you look back on fondly?
Of course I like to remember successes and victories, but what remains in my memory more are the many racing weekends that I spent all over the world with lots of cool guys, the people I met and the many beautiful places I visited.
- What would you do differently in your career if you could?
Nothing, I think I did a lot of things right and always had fun doing it.
- What does mountain biking give you?
Freedom, fun, getting around, great people, the kick I need and every now and then a punch in the face when I'm lying on the ground and need to straighten my bones
- What advice would you give to young drivers before they start their careers?
Go out, ride your bike and have fun.
- Who do you think is the “craziest dog” in 4Cross?
Cedric Cracia, but he doesn't do 4 cross races anymore.
- What are your plans after your career?
I want to race as long as I can and then just keep having fun biking, riding to places I haven't been before and having a cool time on the bikes with the guys.
"This sport is more than just a sport, it's the opponents who become friends, the places you wouldn't otherwise get to, and the action when the starting gate drops and it's all or nothing!"
