Proven success
Irina “Ira” Kalentieva:
World Champion 2009, Bronze Medalist Beijing 2008

It was a dream that came true for the Russian at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 as she took the bronze medal. This season is also not without its highlights. Silver medallist at the European Championships and podium places at the largest World Cup races. Ira’s strength is her technical riding skills, which she herself says that she was born with.

Naturally this means that the grips that she uses are extremely important for her, passing important information to her while she rides, and allowing her to handle her bike as if floating on air, whatever the conditions and weather. As a World Champion she is a very important part of the development team.

gx2_leichtbau_carbon
Proven: GX2 Leichtbau Carbon

Leichtbau – built for racing. The GX2 Leichtbau is the ultimate grip, offering the same slim body and a lightweight construction as the GX1 but featuring a 100% carbon bar end. Ideal for climbers.

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Interview with Irina Kalentieva

Are you pleased with the silver at the European Championships?

I was surprised to be honest, I was also very pleased.


What kind of courses suit you?

The European Champs course was fast with short climbs. I prefer technically demanding courses. And rain. I love riding in wet conditions.


How do you prepare for a race?

I look after my legs! My preparations are good, and mainly centre around ensuring that I have the correct Continental tyres for the conditions.


How do you Ergon grips help?

They provide me a secure contact to the bike. My arms never tire as long as I have my Ergon grips.


What are you targeting in 2010?

Above all, I am going to look after my health and not overdo it. As in previous years, my focus is the World Cups and the World Championships in Canada.

See also
Wolfram Kurschat »
Alban Lakata »