Catching Up with Michael Barry

Michael Barry (Sky Professional Team) is racing in the Belgian classic, Brabantse Pijl on Wednesday. In the midst of the pre-race action, Barry answered a few questions about the race and life in Europe.

You just raced Paris-Roubaix – a very taxing race – mentally and physically. How do you recover and prepare for another race so quickly?
Overall, we become accustomed to repeated efforts so it isn’t that difficult to prepare as we simply adapt to the demands. The cobbles beat us up a little but the muscle damage is repaired within 48 hrs so with some rest and therapy we’re usually okay. More specifically, yesterday, I didn’t do much other than eat and sleep. Today, we went for a short ride and had a massage. I don’t expect my legs to feel great during the first half of the race tomorrow but they should be okay after that.

Thought on Brabantse Pijl?
It is a nice race with a tough finale–usually the protagonists for the Ardennes classics do well as there are some short steep climbs.

What’s next for you after Brabantse Pijl?
I have some time at home until the Giro. I will take a short break and then begin doing some specific training for the race.

More Canadians are making the jump to the European peloton… You’re the most experienced Canadian in Europe – any advice/tips you have for Canadian racers looking to make the jump?
Accept and embrace the foreign culture. Adapting to life away from home is perhaps the most challenging aspect of the life of a professional. Be patient, listen, learn and persist. The transition is drastic and difficult but in the end it is this that makes the experience fulfilling.

How do you relax off the bike between races?
I read, write and watch movies. As a team, we also spend a lot of time socializing.