Enrique Morcillo, aged 33, recently triumphed in the Titan Desert race in Saudi Arabia, surpassing renowned cyclists like Haimar Zubeldia and Luis León Sánchez.
Morcillo’s victory in the challenging Saudi Arabian Titan Desert, where he contended with former professional cyclists such as Haimar Zubeldia and Luis León Sánchez, both of whom maintain exceptional skill levels, is noteworthy. This achievement leads us to delve deeper into the life of Enrique Morcillo. An Ibizan, Morcillo balances his year between sailing and cycling, proudly proclaiming that the key to life is happiness.
Who is Enrique Morcillo?
In his own words, Morcillo sees himself as a passionate cyclist with a natural talent for the sport. Despite his self-assurance in his abilities, he chose not to fully commit to professional cycling.
Why not pursue cycling full-time?
Morcillo had reservations about leaving Ibiza, his home island. He had other professional commitments, including a longstanding job as a boat mechanic, a career he began in his youth and continues at 33, now as a co-owner of a company.
Did the prospect of racing in major tours like the Vuelta a España or the Tour de France ever tempt you?
Morcillo acknowledges the prerequisite of participating in smaller tours like the Vuelta a Burgos and the Vuelta a Asturias before advancing to major tours. The opportunity to move to the Basque Country presented itself, but he preferred to stay in Ibiza, close to his girlfriend, his life, and his mountain biking passion.
Is Ibiza a paradise for you?
For Morcillo, Ibiza is indeed paradise, a place he’s called home all his life. Yet, like anywhere else, it comes with its set of daily obligations and responsibilities, similar to those in a city like Madrid. His family members, including his brother in construction and his sister at Banco Santander, also lead ordinary working lives.
Your career as a ship mechanic?
In the summer, particularly, Morcillo’s work as a ship mechanic peaks. During the quieter sailing season from October to March, he focuses on training, as the demand for sailing services drops.
Do summers allow time for training?
Summer in Ibiza presents challenges for training, with high humidity and traffic. It’s a stark contrast to other times of the year, especially since Morcillo’s involvement with boats intensifies during this season.
How rigorous is your current training regime?
Morcillo trains daily, recognizing that results require consistent effort. He enjoys the thrill of competition and aims to push his limits, particularly at the Cape Epic in South Africa, where he aspires to improve upon his previous fifth-place finish.
Do you believe in your potential to win?
His confidence is bolstered by the encouragement from fellow cyclist Luis León, who, after a recent race, assured Morcillo of his capabilities.
How would earlier encouragement have impacted your career?
Morcillo reflects that earlier encouragement might have influenced his decisions, but he believes he is where he needs to be, earning a living from cycling, supported by a strong team, and leading a life he enjoys.
Life in Ibiza, with roots in Guadix and Cuenca
Morcillo’s parents moved to Ibiza in the seventies for construction work. He resides in San Carlos, outside the city center, enjoying the ideal training environment.
Do you undertake extreme training routines?
Morcillo occasionally engages in grueling training, like his attempt at a non-stop ultra-distance gravel race in Granada, which he had to abandon due to knee pain.
Are there challenges tougher than cycling?
He views his brother’s work in construction as more challenging, admiring his resilience in the face of tough working conditions.
Your status in Ibiza?
Morcillo, a well-known figure on the small island, values his life in Ibiza, cherishing his work and the joy it brings. He recently co-founded a cycling school with Gabriel Noguera, offering weekend cycling routes for children.
For the full article, please visit Diario de Ibiza website here.