Fan Peloton talk: 'I get excited by behind-the-scenes-content'
In our column ‘Fan Peloton talk’, we put members of the Fan Peloton in the spotlight. Who are they, why do they feel connected to Team Visma | Lease a Bike and who is their favourite rider? In this episode, we have a chat with Lawrence Fitz.
Name: Lawrence Fitz
Age: 75 jaar
Residence: Oakwood Illinois (United States of America)
Since when have you been a member of the Fan Peloton of Team Visma | Lease a Bike?
"I have been interested in the performance of the men's and women's team from the beginning and have been impressed by the professionalism the team radiates. In addition, I can greatly enjoy the offensive style of riding."
What do you enjoy most about being a member?
"I get excited by the behind-the-scenes content. I enjoy seeing what goes on in the bus and what the coaches have to say about training and nutrition. I also like the footage of the mechanics and the bikes. Of course, as an American, I find it extra fun when there is content from Sepp and Matteo."
"It would be great for American cycling if Sepp and Matteo can continue to inspire American kids."
Why did you become a fan of Team Visma | Lease a Bike?
"Wout, Sepp and Primoz (Roglic) helped to make me a fan of the team. These riders appeal to me because they come across as very genuine. In recent years I have become a huge fan of Matteo. That Matteo has become the rider he is today shows once again how professional Team Visma | Lease a Bike is. In terms of innovation, nutrition, equipment and forms of training, this team is always at the forefront."
Who is your favorite rider and why?
"I have several favorite riders. I hope Wout wins the classics, Jonas the grand tours and furthermore I hope that the women's team of Team Visma | Lease a Bike becomes the best team in the world. Furthermore, it would be great for American cycling if Sepp and Matteo can continue to inspire American kids."
What is your affinity for cycling?
"I started cycling about 35 years ago. First I did local criteriums and road races and then I started focusing on ultra distance events. That went well for me. In the early 1990s I did some mountain bike racing and also spent some time on the gravel bike when it was in its infancy. Basically, I fell in love with all things involved with cycling. After I quit, I started working as a mechanic at a local bike store."
What would make membership even better for you?
"For me, nothing needs to change. I really like the Fan Peloton initiative and through my membership I show support for the whole team."