My Olympic Experience: David Graf (Switzerland)

Nov 25, 2016

Written by Bart de Jong

Read 6467 times

Name: David Graf
Number in Rio: 48
Country: Switzerland
Result: 14 I think

How tough was the competition in your country to get a spot on the Olympic team for Rio?
David Graf: It was probably the hardest one of all the countries this year. Between Renaud Blanc and myself. The fact we had to choose between World Cup ranked 4 and 5 after Papendal speaks a lot I guess.

What kind of preparation did you do with the National Olympic team before you took off to Brasil?
David Graf: I stayed at home, followed my normal routine and tried to avoid the hype.

The track looked a bit different than at the test event(s). What did you like about the Olympic track and what did you think didn't work?
David Graf: I liked everything but the first turn. It was probably the most fun track I've ridden in my career.

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