CASTELLI Cycling Podcast22 Aug 2023

MICHAEL MØRKØV | The Ultimate Lead-Out Man

Meet Michael Mørkøv, the lead-out specialist that every sprinter dreams of having by their side. The 38-year-old Dane is not the biggest star of the peloton, but he's definitely the master of propelling his sprinter to victory in those heart-pounding final moments.

During this episode of the Castelli Podcast, the Olympic Madison gold champion opens up about lead-out strategies, how he became the ultimate lead-out man, his most cherished victories, his favorite Castelli gear, and more.

TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE:

(00:00) Welcome

(02:49) The lead-out rider’s role

(06:06) Madison vs. mass road sprints (09:40) Lead-out train, best practice

(10:50) Trust between the sprinter and lead-out man

(11:52) Conducting sprint finish research

(12:50) Acting on instinct

(13:44) Power numbers

(14:51) Joining Quick-Step in 2018

(16:07) Advice to upcoming young cyclists

(17:17) Winter training in Denmark

(19:20) Favorite Castelli winter jacket (Alpha RoS 2)

(20:45) Go-To Aero Road Suit (BTW)

(22:30) Dreamer or Realist

(23:24) Time to hang-up your bike?

(24:20) Favorite moment

(25:46) Optimizing bike performance

(27:21) Slowing down the mind

(29:00) Finish

THE FINE ART OF THE LEAD OUT

When it comes to the classic cycling paradox—where it's a team effort but only one person takes the glory—no one feels it more intensely than lead-out specialists like Michael Mørkøv (Soudal Quick-Step).

Being a lead-out specialist might not earn you the flashiest accolades, and you might not find yourself on the winner's podium, but the recognition and job satisfaction are definitely there. Playing a pivotal role in securing major wins can be even more rewarding than chasing after smaller victories yourself.

We'll also delve behind the scenes and learn about the Dane's methods for enduring over 20 hours of weekly training during the chilly winter months in Denmark, and much more.

We're sure you'll find plenty to glean from our conversation with Michael, adding to your enjoyment as you watch those exciting sprint finishes. Enjoy every bit of it. Ciao!

SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION

If you want your questions to be answered on air, be sure to submit your questions by sending us a message on social media or by email to ⁠blog@castelli-cycling.com⁠

IMPORTANT LINKS:

YouTube:

⁠RideLondon 2019 | On-Bike Footage⁠ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwKWNE9xK20

⁠The art of sprinting⁠ | https://youtu.be/XWoJtfZP9U0

Social Handle:

⁠Michael Mørkøv⁠ | https://www.instagram.com/michaelmorkov/

⁠Soudal Quick-Step⁠ | https://www.instagram.com/soudalquickstepteam/

Host: Søren Jensen (Castelli Marketing Manager)

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