Team Mechanic

Marc

He is way more than just the team driver and an excellent bikes mechanic. Passionate about cycling, Marc will take care of all your needs to put you in the best condition… and will also take great pictures during the rides! You'll see, he is an angel…

How did you get to the Sa Calobra Cycling Club?
Marc Roca: A (cycling) friend we have in common brought us together. I checked out the website and I was already enthousiastic about it all. I've been living in Mallorca since I was born and am passionate about cycling. This job looked like a very nice and different adventure. So, Aurelien and I had a talk together and the rest is history.

What is your role in the team?
M.R Good question! I am the mechanic, take care of feed zones, and the photographer. I work hand in hand with Aurélien to accompany the riders from their arrival at the airport on the first day, until their departure at the end of the camp.

What is your daily life like?
M.R Before the ride, I prepare the bottles and food, check the tire pressure, and load the car with all the equipment. We take wheels in the event of a puncture, a few tools, photo and video equipment, as well as a backpack for each rider, with warm or rain clothes depending on the season. On the road, I follow them up close, supply them with water and food, and take pictures of them. After the ride, I clean the bikes, and if I have a little time left, I try to go for a ride at the end of the day. It’s a lot of work, but it’s an exciting job.

Does it help you to be a cyclist for this job?
M.R Of course! I understand the challenge and the rewards that you will get from these experiences – even though you are all way faster than me. It is also a plus for the photos to have a cyclist's eye. To take great photos, you have to know the cool spots but above all know where to stand when the riders pass in front of you. The result is nicer than a selfie, don't you think?

Aurelien nicknamed you the Wonder Kid, would you agree with that?
M.R Ha, ha, ha, no I'm not. I'm young indeed, but very passionate about my job, and always want to make sure everything gets smoothly for the guests. I'm here to ensure they have everything they need, before, during and after the rides. I always try to anticipate what they'll need. For them, it's a real challenge to ride for six days in a row, and to climb as they do. I'm trying to put them in the best possible conditions to meet this challenge. I like them to know that I’m there for them every step of the way.

What is your best memory so far?
M.R It’s hard to choose one in particular. Every week we meet new people. Friendships are created. The Sa Calobra Cycling Club is more than a camp or a team, it's a family. For me it's about training hard, exceeding your own expectations and having fun on and off the bike!