Matea Deliu, the National Champion of Croatia in 2022, at IGF 2023

My name is Matea Deliu and I’m the 2022 Croatian National Road Cycling Champion. I am a medical doctor and academic researcher by profession with a special interest in sports medicine, asthma and lung conditions. 

 I didn’t grow up riding bicycles but rather took it up seriously over the past 3 years when I realised that one can achieve anything if the dedication and perseverance is there! To me, there is nothing more freeing and exhilarating that being on a bike outdoors. The racing aspect brings in an element of competitive spirit but my biggest joy is being able to travel to various places around the world and explore them by bike. I’ve raced at an elite level mostly in the United Kingdom (as I currently live in London) but also internationally in other parts of Europe like Spain, France, Italy, Cyprus, etc. 

Cycling has, in particular during Covid, kept me sane. As a doctor, Covid was an extremely difficult time and training was my escape from the real world. The dedication to targeted training needed from my Coach and Nutritionist is what kept me grounded. I think for me, being outdoors is an exceptionally important element of life. 

I would say my favourite routes include the climbs of the French Alps (Galibier, Croix de Fer, Col de la Madone, to name a few), Pyrenees, Dolomites, as well as northern Spain. To me, there is nothing better than a long climb with a fantastic view on top. I’ve explored many roads in Croatia as well and would have to say my favourite is Gorski Kotar as well as the island of Brac. 

I have taken a bit of a break from professional races for the time being to concentrate on the UCI Road World Championships in Glasgow this year in August. As I live in the UK, it will be on home turf. However, my main passion and goal is really to encourage more women to get into cycling - whether competitive or recreational. At its most basic element, cycling is a social sport however women tend to still feel a bit intimidated. Unfortunately, most professional races we see on TV are still primarily male dominated and so trying to gain more female visibility is key. I am hoping to build more momentum on the Croatian cycling scene .

The most important elements of recovery are replenishing lost electrolytes and carbohydrates. I also make sure that I add in a protein shake after to reduce recovery time. During periods of intense training and racing, my I follow a macronutrient requirement list so I can try and supplement with electrolyte drinks and carbohydrate dense meals like pasta or rice. I am also a big fan of Theragun muscle massage guns that help release muscle tension. Of course, we mustn’t forget the most important element - sleep! 

I had the greatest pleasure being a guest rider for this Gran Fondo as I was not allowed to compete due to UCI rules. I have to admit that it was one of the best races I have attended to date. Although it was small in size given that it was the first UCI Gran Fondo event, I anticipate this to triple within a few years. The organising team really made this event happen faultlessly

The route was perfect. Quiet roads, good climbs, excellent scenery which I managed to catch on the GoPro. 

I don’t have anything in particular that stood out - it was the whole thing put together. If I had to choose, I loved the route!

Istria is, in my opinion, the most beautiful part of the country. It reminds me a bit of Tuscany, just with more of a Croatian flare. While it may not have as many islands as 

Dalmatia, I find the food and the scenery more than makes up for it!