THE STORYTELLER. You may hear the sweet, sweet notes wafting towards your window at Borgolecchi, as our resident aristocrat practices his new found love of the clarinet. We’re never quite sure if all of his stories are based on reality, but they are without a doubt highly entertaining. Probably the greatest tale Giorgio is prone to tell you is that he’s not really a cyclist. This yarn is not to be believed. THE ATHLETE. The bikes have been washed, the bottles cleaned, massages given, Garmins loaded with the next day’s routes and most of the staff has settled down in front of the television with a Sagres in hand, recharging for the next day. But not Benji Carvalho. Benji is outside doing one-leg stair hops, following a nice long run. Benji was João’s first sports director, and then Manuel’s soigneur during his days as a pro. But well before that, he too, was Portuguese National Champion, and even now, he likes to train.
THE KID. Xico Carvalho has been with us almost since day one. His laugh is infectious. His work ethic is second-to-none. And his love of a bucket of chicken is legendary. His first job was stomping grapes in his grandma’s basement and now he wrenches on our Pinarello F10s. All of his hard earned wages are funneled into his beloved Mini Cooper … and buckets of chicken.
THE BOYSCOUT. Joaquim Sampaio is everywhere. He’s filling water bottles. He’s putting out route markers. He’s giving massages. He’s prepping the car. He’s working on his English. He’s just working away, out of sight, quietly taking care of business.
THE HAMMER. Katie rides. She rides hard and she rides fast. And this is how she attacks all aspects of her life. Having spent an extended period of time with our favorite charity, World Bicycle Relief, before joining inGamba, she knows a thing or two about building community and having fun with an extended family. She also knows how to climb. If you don't believe us, just ask the boss.
THE INSTIGATOR. José Sousa runs a tight ship and is responsible for the team operating like a well-oiled machine, but deep down inside he’s always look ing for an opportunity to cause trouble or pull a prank. He’s the brother you love, but always have to keep an eye on. 102