10 Things I Love…Francesca Nocera
Off the track and into her world, FIM EnduroGP World Championship rider Francesca Nocera, shares what fuels her life.
Riding motorcycles and being an HRC factory rider
I started riding when I was 9 years old. My father had a passion for motorcycles and when he had the opportunity to introduce me to riding, he didn’t hesitate to. As a family we’ve travelled all over the world racing bikes and those memories I will cherish forever. The best time in my career was when HRC called me, it was a dream come true.
Hiking
There’s something relaxing about putting one foot in front of the other on a trail, not knowing what’s around the corner. Hiking in the mountains clears my head. Wild and free.
Nature
Nature is the one place where I can fully unplug and feel peaceful. Whether it’s 3,000 metres up a mountain, sat on a sandy beach in Sardinia, or walking around one of Italy’s beautiful lakes, being in nature is where I feel most connected to the world and disconnected from the noise.
Training
I love the burn, pushing my limits and the challenge of bettering myself each day. To be a professional athlete your life revolves around being better today than you were yesterday. I like to feel the fatigue, it’s something I’ve always loved, working hard to reach my goals.
Cycling
There’s something wildly freeing about hopping on a bike and just going. The wind in my face and the feeling of my legs yelling “what did we do to deserve this?!” I love it all. Bonus points for coffee and cake stops mid ride too!
Trying new sports
Adrenaline mixed with awkwardness, it’s a strange feeling to step into something unfamiliar. Whether it’s trying to surf for the first time, paddle board or taking my MTB into the mountains, trying new sports keeps me humble and energised.
Travelling
New countries, cities, cultures and perspectives, travelling feeds my soul. I love travelling to new places, most recently I’ve discovered Japan. I’m in love with the culture, the people, how clean and organised they are.
My dog Asti
Asti was my joy in four legged form. He was the best trail buddy I could’ve asked for and we went on countless adventures together. I unfortunately lost him last year, but there’s not a moment goes by that I don’t think of him.
Coffee
Being Italian, coffee is more than a drink, it’s a ritual. From the first sip of my cappuccino, I’m transformed from a zombie to a functioning human.
Cooking after a long day
There’s something strangely soothing about chopping veggies and stirring things in a pan after a long day. It’s my way of slowing down, feeding my body and I don’t need a recipe!