Austrian cyclist Bernie Eisel turns 31 today. Known as Mark Cavendish’s domestique, Bernie was the only one of the legendary HTC lead-out train who went with Cav to Sky‘s 2012 line-up. But there’s more to him than just being Cav’s road captain, ensuring he’s in a position to win. Eisel is a funny, intelligent and articulate man who, unlike a lot of bigger names in cycling, actually has something interesting to say for himself.
Breakfast with Bernie
If you’ve never seen VeloNews’ ‘Breakfast with Bernie’ spots from the Tour de France 2011, have a look. These little films give an insight into what it takes to ride a Grand Tour, from someone who is at the sharp end of a lot of stages. Treat yourself: watch the whole series.
A little history
Bernie turned pro in 2001, riding with Mapei, Francaise des Jeux and T-Mobile, which then morphed into HTC-Highroad. Although most people know him as Cav’s second-in-command, Bernie is also a formidable Classics rider. He won Gent-Wevelgem in 2010 and came fifth in Paris-Roubaix in 2006. Perhaps one day, when he is no longer part of the dynamic duo, we’ll see him churning up the cobbles chasing his own victories. But in the meantime, let’s raise a glass to the birthday boy. Alles Gute zum Geburtstag!
I love Bernie Eisel – and I usually have a dislike for HTC/Sky riders. However, it’s big Tony Martin who’s ‘the Panzerwagen’, Bernie’s affectionately known as ‘Donkey’!
Oh is it? Oh well.
Lucky for the edit option – it has now been erased. Don’t much like Tony Martin myself.
Haha, why does that not surprise me?!
I don’t know – I’m usually so measured in my opinion and not blinding loving any one cyclist …
As an Austrian, I’m sure Bernie would rather have a glass of gluehwein and a plate of my Kaiserschmarr’n.
I’d add a photo if I knew how to do it!
you can always add the photo on Facebook … the drinks trolley is about to make an appearance anyway! 🙂
I need the trolley after live-tweeting the end of that Algarve stage. Really fantastic teamwork by Sky to stretch the peloton to and beyond breaking point on the final climb of the day. Only a cat-3, but the pack just went boom after Wiggins went to the front. And finished off in fine style by Richie Porte. Now where’s that beer?
It’s Madeira port today, in honour of Portugal and all … I’ll pour you a glass!