Originally Posted by
Duke7777
It's very interesting to read Lenton58's story of BRNO Cycles and Le Croco bikes. I was racing in Vancouver in those years and occasionally hung out with with a young member of the BRNO team. He was a part First Nations juvenile delinquent who had tremendous natural talent and went on to become junior provincial road champion. He also grew up into very decent and respectable person, and says that bike racing probably saved his life. I still occasionally run into him and must remember to ask him more about Jorge and BRNO. I was not aware of Jorge's business difficulties, but what Lenton58 recounts about the team was certainly true - he took some bad boys and turned them into top level racers.
Duke — your post is very important to me — as confirmation of what I observed, as well as a fitting tribute to Jorge's dedication and care.
I am holding out hope that your friend/acquaintance can provide more details about the fate of Jorge — and/or indeed his story. If there is something too intimate about Jorge to publicize according to either his or your discretion, I would appreciate a PM.
At the time, I was in my 30's and closing in towards 40. I was life-exerienced enough to know that Jorge really was turning these lads around and 'saving their lives' in the process. One or two of his riders defected and went to another team that was heavily bankrolled with all its attendant glamour. But Jorge took that in stride, and those riders who stood by him only made the team more bonded together.
Jorge was not totally alone. I never inquired about his more delicate affairs during some of the time I was around the shop. A new baby in my life was taking most of my attention — among other things. But, I can remember a particular criterium race in Washington state. The squderia needed some serious transportation for the bikes and team members. The event was out in the weeds, so public transport was out of the question. Moreover, as far as I remember, Jorge never owned a car when I knew him. Nevertheless, a fleet was assembled, which I think that there were people who were supporting Jorge and his riders. One of the vehicles was a very large, shiny blue Mercedes Benz donated for the teams use on the occasion. I drove it down into Washington and back full of kit and riders in the convoy. It was a great day! (The Merc was a cool ride too
)
Thanks again for your post.