How do you secure a Top 5 at the brutal Valley of Tears with almost zero training and a bad knee?

In Episode 2 of The Gravel Paddock, we sit down with Gravel & Road pro racer Simon Pellaud. We debrief his chaotic start to the 2026 season, diving into the reality of high-altitude winter prep in Colombia and the extreme survival tactics required for the Transcordilleras.

Beyond the racing, Simon opens up about the "Privateer Shift", the massive logistical, and mental transition of managing his own global racing program after years in a traditional team structure.

No fluff. No filter. The race starts here. 🏁

⏱️ Episode Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction & Welcoming Simon Pellaud
• 02:12 Transitioning from Road to Gravel Racing
• 07:10 Becoming a Privateer: The Shift in Racing Dynamics
• 08:03 2026 Goals and Challenges Ahead
• 11:18 Training in Colombia: The High Altitude Advantage
• 15:22 Adapting to New Equipment and Injury Management
• 18:51 Race Debrief: Transcordilleras Experience
• 23:19 Injury Treatment
• 27:18 Valley of Tears and Mid South Gravel Insights
• 34:21 The Tech Check
• 38:32 Managing Travel as a Privateer
• 41:16 Mental and Physical Preparation for Upcoming Races
• 43:24 Conclusion
• 44:42 Outro

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📱 Follow The Inside Line:

• Follow Simon Pellaud on Instagram & Strava: @simonpellaud

• Join the Paddock on Instagram: @TheGravelPaddock

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