Among other legends and fairy tales that have embroidered the history of professional cycling,

there exists a rose tinted narrative about how young riders are found, nurtured, and then

finally unleashed upon the world's stage.

These are what the Italians call Pré destinati.

Individuals so physically gifted that they glide through every age category, losing

count of bouquets and complement, their dreams effortlessly merging into reality.

Once there were sons of farmers and factory workers, or failing that bike shop owners.

In the 21st century cycling has globalised gentrified, and now they can come from anywhere

hot-housed, in talent academies or pluck from other disciplines, mountain biking or cyclocross

or even from other sports.

But the trope remains the same.

They are somehow chosen ones, kids peddling on a divine path to a promised land.

Also we think, until a story arrives to remind us that for many the road is long, winding

and much more perilous.

Once such story is Marcus Christie's.

He told it in an essay, an article, 9000 words that he committed to paper mainly for himself

for catharsis, but he also shared with me just under a year ago.

You'll hear extracts of this mini-memoir in this podcast, as well as Marcus's reflections

now a few months on.

It is a parable of a young man, his hope, despair, sacrifice and perseverance.

All in the name of a quest that, like that of so many other youngsters, proved anything

but romantic.

...