TNN Talks: Chris Williams

26 March 2018

You might have known that TNN’s Chris Williams is from Brisbane, Australia, and that he went from being a self-described “couch potato” to a pro cyclist with Team Novo Nordisk. But did you know that Chris has to make sure his shoes and sunglasses are clean before each race and loves the movie “Memento”?

Below, the TNN veteran shares a few things you may not know in this edition of TNN Talks.

Favorite food when traveling:

When I’m traveling, it can be difficult to find a good coffee, but I will always search high and low for a good brew.

Favorite food from your home country:

Australia has a really diverse range of cuisine, and it is really easy to go out and find any type of restaurant. But I’d have to say my favorites are Vietnamese and Mexican.

Favorite musician/band:

I will listen to just about anything as long as it isn’t death metal, but I’m a Pearl Jam fan from way back.

Do you use a pen or pump?

I use pens, but I have never actually tried a pump. I’m a big believer of, ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t try to fix it’.

Anyone else in your family with diabetes?

I have a couple of aunts and uncles in the Philippines with type 2 diabetes, but I am the only one with type 1.

Favorite movie:

It is tough to narrow it down to just one, so I will give you three: “Memento”, “Crash” and “District 9”.

Last book you read:

“Prisoners of Geography” by Tim Marshall. It’s about geopolitics. I’m not really a fan of fiction.

Worst way someone has mispronounced your name:

I think some of the Italian staff still think my name is ‘William’.

Any pre-race rituals?

I always make sure my sunglasses and shoes are clean before the race, and I always make sure my wheels are tightened in square and the brakes are centered before the start.

Favorite cyclist growing up:

Even though it might sound a bit controversial now, I grew up in the era of Lance Armstrong. He was exciting to watch and it’s what got me into cycling in the first place.

Favorite race:

I enjoy the Tour de Korea for the parcours, Japan Cup for the fans and Milan-San Remo for the aura.

Biggest hero in life:

I don’t have any one specific hero, but I have a huge respect for those that donate their time and money to help others less fortunate.

It could be big or small and it could be in a way less tangible than direct giving, but I respect to those with heart for a fellow human being.

Favorite hobby off the bike:

I’m going to assume that I can’t say mountain biking for this one? If I’m not on the bike, I still like being active outside so I enjoy hiking, swimming and stand-up paddle board surfing.

Night owl or early riser:

If you ride a bike in Australia you MUST be an early riser; however, I adapt when I am in Spain for the racing season.

Favorite ice cream flavor:

I can never go past a good coconut ice cream.

Favorite spot to get coffee:

Wherever makes a good coffee and has a stocked cake cabinet. I have been traveling around a lot lately, so I don’t have a ‘local’ spot at the moment.

Favorite place you’ve visited:

I went to Croatia for a holiday a couple of years ago and it was great. So much history and beautiful coastline. I’d love to go back and check out the National Parks, as I’ve seen some pictures of some amazing lakes, waterfalls and forest.

Country you’d most like to holiday in:

I’ve done some races in Norway and Denmark, but sometimes the weather isn’t very enjoyable on a bike.

I’d love to go back to Scandinavia without having to ride a bike in freezing rain to check it out. Thanks to “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”, I’d love to go to Iceland as well!