8 questions for the MTB Marathon-MTB XCM world champion, Pericles Ilias
If MTB is considered an extreme sport, then the MTB cross country marathon is the epitome of adventure. A few words from the Greek super athlete, Pericles Ilias.
An article of the "Chasing the Greek Adventure" series, as presented on the Redbull website, edited by WayOut Adventures.
Αν το MTB θεωρείται extreme sport, τότε το ΜTB cross country marathon αποτελεί την επιτομή της δράσης.
Λίγα λόγια από τον Έλληνα αθλητή.
Periklis Ilias was born in Athens on 26.06.1986 and lives in Elefsina. “Ever since I can remember myself, I've memories of being outside at open spaces and playing all the time. At an early age I took up tennis, but around the age of 13, after a city cycling race that won my heart, I got my cycling card, and along with it, I’ve been travelling around the world for the past 20 years!''
Always following a program with great dedication, faith and discipline, Pericles has, to this day, managed to win:
15 Greek Championships
6 Balkan Championships
Has been on podiums in over 60 international races
One world championship
He’s been a part of London 2012
Και αμέτρητα χιλιόμετρα πάνω στη σέλα.
Greece VS Abroad. Is there a MTB gap on racing level?
The sport of mountain biking in Greece has a lot of potential because our country has a vast, wealthy mountainous mass. Competitively, however, I can say with absolute certainty that Greece is far behind and this is due to a number of things. In order to evolve, we need will, time, patience and dedication and these things aren’t easy to be found nowadays. Emphasis needs to be placed on sports (for children) because this is where tomorrow's champions will emerge from. The competitions abroad (to a large degree) are well organized, the budget is quite high, the world to which they are addressed to is very different and the support from the state is great. So, the comparison with Greece cannot be objective.
What’s the cycling race you’d like to see take place in Greece?
I have done all the great races in Greece. What I would like, with all my heart, would be to race (and win haha) in a world championship in my country. To relive the emotions and moments of the world championship in France in 2012.
You are part of the DMT racing team. How is your cooperation with the rest of the team? Can you tell us a few things about your teammate Tiago Ferreira (Red Bull Athlete).
DMT RACING TEAM... They are like a family now, we have been together for many years, many trips, racing experiences, stuff that create a strong bond. Tiago is a great athlete with passion for what he does. The atmosphere is quite professional, everyone tries their best. We are close and we have a great time.
What are your feelings about your victory in the world championship and the participation in the Olympics?
Participating in the Olympic Games is the most beautiful thing an athlete can experience. It's a big celebration. The energy emitted by this tradition fills you up and makes you a very rich person. It's the whole journey, as they say...The world championship is something completely different. For a few seconds it feels like you are the strongest person in the world and the happiest. What am I feeling during those times? Tears pour out like a volcano erupting, to express what you feel at that time... Later when you settle back into reality you realize what is happening and your mind begins to acclimate somehow.
Mountain biking or road cycling?
Haha cream or chocolate? I'll probably never know. I have the same love and feel equally strong for both of them. With MTB you are closer to nature and you can explore its secluded and hidden treasures. It is also safer as you are not cycling next to cars and traffic. Also, with MTB, your physical condition faster is built faster, with a shorter training session. On the other hand, with road cycling you don't miss a minute from the pulse of the city, you train your awareness and your reflexes a lot.
What are your dreams and goals for your sporting future?
My next goal is the qualification for Tokyo 2020 and certainly my attendance in all the major events of the following seasons. Some of them are: The Thisia tour, Sparta MTB S2, XCO C1 Israel, Bike Odyssey in Greece.
What are the thoughts that accompany you on the long cycling routes and give you strength for the finish line?
This is a very good question, but my thoughts are different each time. Especially during the big races, I get flashes of how hard I've worked to get where I am and keep going.
What is your favorite cycling route in Greece and abroad?
As cliché as this may sound, if the company and the mood are good, the route comes second. However, if I had to choose a single route that was memorable to me and that I would like to cross again it would be the Dolomites. Especially during the summer season, the alpine landscape and the smells of the mountain are enchanting.