Was it difficult to keep your heart rate down when you walked up the hill for your first qualifying lap?
David Graf: I felt really good out there and was positive. I think it was not different than at the other races.. but that is hard to really tell haha.
You basically worked for a couple of years to do well during the Olympic Games. Was it all worth it?
David Graf: It is worth it because I love the process and I loved being on that stage and exposed. But as you can imagine.. it was not worth it to ride the worst race in a long time if not ever.
Were you happy with your results?
David Graf: No.How important has your coach been during the race in Rio?
David Graf: Since they had to rebuild my whole bike after almost every lap, change helmets, Leatt Brace etc. there was not much time to discuss anything. But he played a big role in keeping me in the right mental position leading up to the race and also during the disaster of a 1/4 final.
How did it feel being part of your national Olympic team?
David Graf: I felt honored to be there and I felt bad that I was not able to show what I wanted.Did you get some social media updates done while you were in Brasil?
David Graf: Yeah sure.. but I tried not to post anything that could start a discussion.
How tight was security in Rio?
David Graf: Less than London. We felt safe though.
Who were your picks for the gold one week before the race (men/women)?
David Graf: I was thinking if I want to win, I will have to beat Sam and Joris. They were the big favorites in my eyes.Ever since you made it back home, have things changed much after the games?
David Graf: Not really, a lot of questions if I can ride without crashing too ???? But that race sure had an impact to many of the young kids in Switzerland. They look at you in a different way haha
Did you do any special appearances back home as an Olympian?David Graf: Nothing special.
Are you going to put all the effort into it again to do it all over in Tokyo 2020?
David Graf: I try, and I will do anything to be in that same position again. Just keep it together next time.
Last words: Thanks for the Interview Bart