With the new Red Bull Crashed Ice season kicking off in just two months, defending champion Marco Dallago is eager to sharpen his blades. The 2014 world champion has spent a lot of time training with his brother, Luca, during the off-season – a period that is way too long for the Austrian rider. The pure thrill of riding and racing on the ice cross downhill tracks makes him love every competition. "No Red Bull Crashed Ice event ever let me down in my expectations," says Dallago. "It is very exciting for me to see the new stops in Belfast and Edmonton on the race calendar. It's always great to have new locations, because you never know what to expect until you are there and see it."
You seem to have a close relationship with many Red Bull Crashed Ice riders. Who would you say is your fiercest competitor and your closest rival?
After the last season, I have to say Cameron Naasz. I think there is no other rider I had more heats against. And there was never one where you could say he beat me easily or I beat him easily. It's just great to have this battle with him. We always have a good time, but we never make it easy for each other in a race.
In your preparation for a race, how do you manage to stay calm and focused?
It's all about mindset. It maybe sounds strange, but for me it's a decision to not be nervous or afraid of the big stage. If I think of the facts: 100,000-plus spectators, lightshow, loud music, unreal tracks and the best places in the world I just think: 'man, this is probably the best time of my life. I don't want to ruin that with having a bad feeling because I'm very nervous or afraid to fail. Whatever happens happens, but I'm going to enjoy this!'
This year, you will be fighting to defend your title. Will you have a new strategy?
I realised that I perform better when I work on something really hard and when I'm focused. If the moment of truth comes, I just let it go; I have fun and enjoy the race. Ever since I started trusting myself and setting clear and easy goals, it's worked out pretty good. Before last season, I trained hard and I knew exactly what I wanted, so during the race season I stayed very focused in one direction and the result was amazing, I ended up winning the world championship!
Quick Questions...
What music do you listen to while training? Contra Verse, Airbourne, Santa Cruz
What is the last movie you watched? I watched Team America yesterday for the 100th time. For sure my favourite movie!
What do you do when hanging out with your friends? Playing Mario Kart (I practice my racing skills!)
What is your next vacation destination? I'm going skiing in Wagrain-Kleinarl before the season starts.
What makes you smile? Thinking the season starts soon
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