Interview Adèle Normand

In the past few months, a young Canadian rider has been warming up under the Spanish sun. At first, she started to collecting podium spots on the national circuit, but this weekend she also came close to the podium in an UCI race. Adèle Normand finished fourth, just behind riders with experience in the World Tour races. The 24-years-old rider is working her way back up again this year. She would like to prove herself to be part of the national selection at the Worlds on home soil, and to be part of a World Tour team, next year as well. In this interview, you can get to know one of the new talented prospects of North America that you might see more & more in front at the European roads.

You had a strong Spring. Do you feel like you’ve taken a step forward this season?

Thank you! I definitely think I have, yes. I have had a lot of power PR in training and it’s been really nice to feel my best again after being sick and catching up over the last few months. I didn’t get to race too many UCI races yet, so I think there is still a good step to take when it comes to experience, but the form is certainly there.

You’re from Canada, how does it feel to live and race overseas for most of the year?

I have been away from home since I was 18. For me it was never a question of « if », but « when ». When you’re Canadian and you want to be a professional cyclist you know you have to commit to moving abroad. For some it’s harder than other, but to me it has been just like I had imagined. Of course it’s harder sometimes, cycling is tough and you miss your family, but you meet so many great people and it’s part of the sport. The few races at home feel so special, but we also feel the support from Canadians even in Europe. I really hope to be on the start line for Worlds in Montreal!

What advice would you give to other North American riders who want to race in Europe?

My biggest advice would be to learn about the cultures, learn a second language (French, Spanish, Italian). Most of us will go through smaller teams before stepping up, and you can’t expect them to adapt to you. You will be much happier and learn much quicker if you can understand their ways and what they’re saying. I will also add it’s important to surround yourself with positive people! And don’t be scared to ask people for help or advice!

What are your goals for this season?

My goals this year is to make it clear I have the level to be professional. I want to bounce back and sign on a WT team. So to keep being consistent and hopefully get a uci podium. We race Durango Durango and Volta Cataluna next. If I can do well there it would mean a lot to me, but also to the team, since it’s the local race.

How did you get into cycling?

I got into cycling from my dad’s passion from it. I was 6 years old. From what I can remember he was stood up in front of the TV watching the Tour de France and I asked him if I could start cycling. The next day I was signed up to our local club (Tourcom Proco) and we drove to my older’s sister’s friends house to buy his old road bike ! My mom took care of getting me some bibs and a jersey and the rest is history.

What is the hardest aspect of the sport for you?

The hardest aspect for me at the moment has been the uncertainty. Not knowing if you’re going to be kept on a team, not knowing if you’ll get a contract anywhere the season after or even if your team would fold. It’s hard to be relaxed and focused in these circumstances and that’s so important for performance.

Which race do you dream of riding one day?

The Tour de France, for sure.

What are your biggest interests outside of cycling?

I love to cook and I’m really interested by fashion! I want to learn how to knit.