Stivian Gatev is one of the most recognisable mountain bike athletes in Bulgaria. That of course is well deserved considering he is 3x National Champion and 3x .Bulgarian Downhill Series Champion. Stivi is know for his determination, hard training routines, and not backing down. We managed to catch him during his off-season to talk about
Tell us about 2019 season, did you manage to accomplish your goals?
I don't know how it happened, but I rode two different bikes in the begging and end of season. I managed to participate in many international races such as IXS European Cup. I finished 24th in Pila, Italy. This experience helped a lot. I won National Champs and Bulgarian Downhill series. In that sense you can say that I achieved my major goals, but I feel that 2020 will be a lot better. Now I ride 29" inch wheels and the differences from 27.5" feels pretty good. I'm certain that it will show in my results during 2020.
We heard that you started a new project. Tell us a bit more.
Yes, that is true. I've started my own mountain bike academy. I'll teach my experience which i gathered during my racing carreare to young racers. Gatev -Downhill Academy is just 6 months old, but we're all most booked throught whe whole of 2020. Besides the educational courses we'll organize trips to races abroad. This is very important experience. I believe that if young racers receive adequate support they will perform. We're still at the beginning, but i feel that this is going to be one of the projects to which I'll dedicate myself.
Is there something new in your preparation for 2020 season?
At the end of 2019 I changed my diet. I've managed to lower my weight to 82kg. This reflected my endurance, and i feel much lighter on the bike. I'm still going to the GYM a couple of day in week. I don't lift weights. My training is concentrated towards balance and endurance. In good day i'm on my road bike doing about 70-80 kilometers per day.
What's the goal for 2020 season?
I'll participate in all IXS European cups, and also I'll do some races in Greece and Romania. Of course wining the National Champs and National series is still a major goal. In 2020 Borovets Open Cup will hose nationals. This is a track and event which I like very much, it suits my style. I hope you guys can bring Monster Girls to the race. The most important aspect will be combining my academy with the racing schedule. It's going to be hard, but I'm sure I'll enjoy it.
See you guys in Borovets.