Catalina Soto Campos has been in Japan now for a few days to train, recon and enjoy the Olympic road race course and experience. Our Chilean rider is one of only 67 riders participating in the event and she is beyond excited to represent her country. Our sponsor Rogelli has made a custom kit for her for this very special event. She sent us a message from Japan:
The Olympics it’s what most athletes dream about. It feels surreal to be here. I think I will realise where I am when It’s all finished and I’m home. Since I knew I was coming I somehow started enjoying the whole experience. You train, race and dream with the whole purpose of doing your best in the one day, which is really crazy!
The course is great, I love it. It’s mostly a rolling terrain. When you leave the city you go into a beautiful valley towards Mount Fuji with some small technical bits as well as some tough uphills. Our longest climb is around 5 kilometres before we go into the only flat sector of the race heading into the final circuit. It all comes down to choosing the right gear, fuelling yourself and staying cool during the race. The heat and humidity will play a role in the race too.
I have had amazing support since day one from my parents, my family and friends, the team and team sponsors. I will be wearing a bright red jersey with the condor and the Olympic Rings on my back, courtesy of Rogelli Sports Wear.
I want everyone to know that I’m loving this experience and it is making me dream even bigger than I ever thought I would. I will give it my best and enjoy it! The final countdown is on!
You can follow Catalina’s race on Sunday 25 July. There are many Olympic broadcasters like Eurosport x GCN, NOS, Sporza, BBC and SBS. The race is 137 kilometres long and the race starts 1pm local time which is 6am Central European Time.