Cycling: Jan Ullrich's manager Ole Ternes gave an interview with the Rennrad Blog a few days ago www.speed-ville.de some interesting insights into his work as a manager, Jan's training plans and his view of cycling in Germany. We have summarized some of the most interesting statements.
About his duties as manager of Jan
Ternes speaks of "brand positioning". Because in a way, the name of every active and former professional athlete is a brand that needs to be positioned. The credibility of the content is particularly important here – especially because of the past.
The day-to-day business consists of probing and processing national and international inquiries from sponsors or from the media world. Especially with the latter, authenticity also plays a decisive role.
About the situation of cycling
From a global perspective, the development is extremely positive, especially in the amateur segment, where Asia and the USA are catching up. Despite the upswing in recent months, there is still room for improvement in Germany. A lot also depends on this season and whether ARD's return to the Tour de France will prove to be the right step. Companies in particular are still extremely cautious in the cycling sector in this country. Jan Ullrich, for example, receives more inquiries from abroad than from home.
About the training of Jan
Jan does sport about two to three times a week, including very basic things like morning push-ups and sit-ups. He is also supported by a professional coach once or twice a week, especially because Jan, like many ex-professionals, is plagued by severe back pain.
The altitude chamber is also interesting, where Jan trains regularly, especially in winter. So he can build up form much faster.
About preparing for races for everyone, such as the Ötztaler Cycle Marathon
Jan gets in shape very quickly and really only needs a few kilometers to build up the necessary fitness. With “Ötzi”, for example, training begins just an unbelievable five weeks before the start; a block of five to six hours is installed three weeks before the start.
About the future plans with Jan
Ternes clearly rejects a return to the professional field, but there are considerations to work through this time in a book or even in a movie like other ex-colleagues.
About Jan's relationship with former colleagues
It is similar to former work colleagues. You got along well with some and still keep in touch later, with others not so much. However, Jan still has a good connection to some of his former companions. For example, he maintains real friendships with Matthias Kessler and Andreas Klöden.
About the attractiveness of cycling for young people
A lot still has to happen here in order to be able to keep up with other sports. Association and club structures are not optimal, funding and support bases are also in need of improvement. Young athletes are therefore not least dependent on support from their parents, not only financially, but also in terms of time.