Behind the Scenes in Leogang: A Rain-Soaked Morning with Trek Future Racing

The story of my day in Leogang didn’t start at the race venue—it began much earlier, at the Trek Future Racing team home. Before the sun was up and long before the crowds arrived, I made my way through the rain to meet the riders and staff who were already preparing for a demanding day on the XC course.

Walking into the team home felt like stepping into the calm before the storm. Outside, the rain pressed against the windows; inside, the atmosphere was focused but relaxed. The riders gathered for an early breakfast, of their favorite pre race breakfest. These were the moments I loved capturing most: the quiet concentration, the familiar routine, the small exchanges that reveal the personality of a team more than any race result can.

After breakfast, I joined the riders and staff as we loaded into the team van. The drive to the venue was slow and wet, the mountains of Leogang disappearing and reappearing behind clouds. Even with the weather, there was a sense of anticipation building—everyone shifting mentally toward race mode. Photographing that transition was a privilege in itself.

When we arrived, the intensity picked up. Trainers were set up, warm-ups began, and the mechanics got to work on the final bike checks. Watching the mechanics operate with such precision—adjusting, tightening, fine-tuning—was like witnessing a choreography perfected over countless race days. My job was simply to document it: the grit, the focus, the details that most fans never get to see.

This opportunity meant a lot to me, and it wouldn’t have happened without the support of a few key people.

Thank you to Bernd, the team owner, for letting me into the inner circle on one of the busiest days of the season. And a huge thank you to Natalia Grzegorzewska, who introduced me to Bernd and let me into her world. I’m incredibly grateful to the both of you.