Marcel Zamora (double winner): “I am not far from Barcelona. The climate conditions are the same. Here, I love the cycling course. I feel at home.”
Hervé Faure (winner of the first edition): “All athletes are under pressure. There is a great challenge. I started my career here. It was a big turning point. Since then, I have won twice in Embrun. I want to win here on Sunday, and I will do my best to achieve it.”
Patrick Bringer (third in 2007 after a memorable sprint): “Last year was a great year with two podiums. My sprint here left a lasting impression. I am very happy to be here and happy for the organization with everyone expected to attend. The cycling course is splendid. I want to be on the podium, and I am in better shape than last year.”
Laurent Jalabert: “I’m not sure my experience will be of any help (laughs). I come here for enjoyment. I thank the organizers for inviting me to the stars’ table! I’m glad to see them next to me. I won’t see them again until Sunday evening.
I have great memories of cycling here. I am a competitor. Recognizing the course went well. I did it quite quickly. My goal is to have a good cycling course. As I will fall behind in swimming, I will meet many people along the way. I will need to take the right paths.
I won’t be upset by being in the media spotlight. There is enthusiasm because I am a former high-level athlete. It’s sometimes awkward because the real champions of the discipline are not in the media spotlight. It makes me uncomfortable at times. On the other hand, it allows this sport to gain media attention. Good if it pleases, too bad if it bothers.”
Rutger Beke (Belgian): “There are mountains in Belgium where I can train. It’s not a flat country like a pancake! In Monaco, it was a good experience with a victory. I love the climbs, and it’s different from most IronMan races where the courses are flat.”
Alexandra Louison (winner in 2007): “Training in the region helps me. I know it very well. I have been here for six years. These are my training grounds. In Nice, I am surrounded by my loved ones. I want to have a good race for myself, but especially for them. I try not to put pressure on myself. I am also preparing for Hawaii.”
Katja Schumacher: “I am happy to be here. Some say I am not in shape, but I’m here to win.”
Rebecca Preston: “I have had a lot of success. I had a year where I was injured, where I left my team. Now I am training with the world champion. I want to have a good race to get back on the podium.”
Katia Myers: “Among all the races I’ve done, Nice is my favorite. The cycling profile is unique. I will try to deliver a great performance.”
