Pauline Grabosch

Pauline Grabosch, geboren 1998, ist eine deutsche Bahnradsportlerin. Mit zahlreichen internationalen Erfolgen, darunter Gold bei der Weltmeisterschaft 2019 im Teamsprint, hat sie sich als eine der Top-Athletinnen etabliert. Sie wird für ihre herausragende Leistung und positive Einstellung geschätzt, und ist eine Inspiration für junge Radsportlerinnen weltweit – wir sind mehr stolz, dass wir sie für unser Projekt “48/17 fixed gear magazine” interviewen durften!

Bastian Steinbach im Interview mit Pauline Grabosch

“With Pauline Grabosch we would like to introduce you to our fourth rider of issue No.1. An incredibly strong and inspiring female track cyclist from Germany. It’s impressive when such a powerful woman slams past you in the velodrome at 60km/h. In the age of 23, her showcase is already filled with many gold and silver medals from World- and European Championships. In this context we wish you and your teammates all the best for world championships in Roubaix. “ – 48/17

Hey Pauline, were you born into a professional sports career? And do you sometimes see yourself as a different everyday life?

I wouldn’t say that I was born into it. Actually, I always wanted to do sport as a hobby or as a balance to my everyday life. “Slipped in” sounds better, but I have no regrets and I am happy that I am allowed to go this journey.

Could you briefly describe your feelings when you read the following words: "Equal rights in sport"

A very difficult topic and I have to admit that two hearts are beating in my chest. If you look at it rationally, sport is part of the entertainment industry and obviously men are asked more than women simply because of the level of speed or power. It's not for nothing that people say higher, faster, further. From an emotional point of view, I think it's a shame when women are ridiculed or underestimated in sport because we learn to achieve 100%, train hard and want to win the same gold. We are also role models that are important to inspire young girls to do sports.

You are a sports soldier at the Bundeswehr and successful in track cycling. Nevertheless, there are firm opinions towards the police and the armed forces, especially among young people. How does this trigger you?

I think that more educational work should be done. I don't think anyone is aware of the chances that the Bundeswehr and the police offer. I'm so grateful that I'm a sports soldier and no question is a stupid question ...

What advice would you give to women who are interested in track cycling?

Just do it! Track cycling is a sport that I didn't want to try initially. I had a lot of respect for the curves and the speed. But do not knock it 'till you try it. Anyone who rides a bike can try it, but you have to have a little courage and then - just do it! 

Apart from your trophy showcase, what would be your ultimate sporting or personal goal?

Ultimate sounds very final. But I definitely want to win each jersey once and ultimately win Olympic gold. I think then at some point I can say goodbye to sport with a smile.

Thank you, Pauline.