The Bode-mobile hits the World Cup circuit in Europe

By Published On: December 15th, 2003Comments Off on The Bode-mobile hits the World Cup circuit in Europe

The Bode-mobile hits the World Cup circuit in EuropeAs the World Cup shifted back to Europe this past week, Bode Miller hit the road in style and comfort in his “Bode-mobile.” Determined to eliminate as many distractions as possible so he can concentrate on ski racing and his main goal this season of winning the overall World Cup title, Miller will be chauffeured from race to race in a customized motor home.

Runner-up to Austria’s Stephan Eberharter in the battle for the overall crown last year, Miller may not yet be king of the ski world but the American is sure to be king of the road and the envy of his fellow ski racers.

The only skier to compete in every race last season, Miller faces a similarly grueling schedule this year. He will be chauffeured around Europe by his friend Jake in a motorized palace that includes all the comforts of home.

“It’s pretty big,” said Miller. “It has a king-size bed so I can have my own comforter, my own pillows and stuff. There’s a pretty big kitchen area and one of my best friends [Jake] is a chef and he will do the driving and cooking for me.

“One of the things I’m trying to do is take as many of the variables out. On the World Cup you’re constantly going from hotel to hotel, unloading and loading, eating different food. You’re in different beds every night, there are just so many things going on besides ski racing.”

Miller’s home-away-from-home was waiting at the airport when he got to Europe and took him to the next tour stop in Alta Badia.

There is also likely to be a hot cooked meal waiting for Miller, Jake having spent the last week at a cooking school in Parma, Italy, learning how to prepare nutritious food.

Motor homes have been a fixture on the Formula 1 circuit for years, providing a quiet sanctuary for drivers. Miller expects his will also provide him with an oasis of tranquillity.

Much better known in Europe than he is even in his own home state of New Hampshire, Miller is a fan favorite on the World Cup circuit and one of its most recognizable personalities.

To help get away from the autograph hunters and revelers, Miller has been given permission to park the Bode-mobile in the secured and guarded television compounds at World Cup stops.

“Everyone seems to be talking about it,” said Miller. “I’m sure there are going to be a few problems.”

At Alta Badia, Miller appeared to be back on track in his pursuit of World Cup points, finishing fourth in a giant slalom. He’d failed to finish three straight races during a weekend of speed events at Beaver Creek, Colorado.

Share This Article

About the Author: Pete Rugh