FREDDY MERCKXURY

I had a lot of fun creating this AI chatbot With Michael Marckx. We are using new technology to create fun experiences that reinforce the very unique brand of the Belgian Waffle Ride. Cycling can get so serious and up-tight but every now and then we need to be reminded that bikes are seriously fun. Riders are able to get real useful info about the race, but it comes in an entertaining way, through conversation with this over-the-top character, Freddy. 

The genesis of "Freddy Merckxury" came from the confluence of several ideas which is a little silly, but really fun for people steeped in this unique little subculture. Let me try to explain.

BELGIAN

The Belgian Waffle Ride is an American cycling event built on the DNA of the Belgian spring classics, but with a healthy disrespect for the usual way of riding a bike. 

EDDIE MERCKX 

The all-time greatest cyclist in history is Eddie Merckx. He is the icon of a Belgian hard-man cyclist, and (I think) a distant relative of BWR founder Michael Marckx.

FREDDY MERCURY

Freddy Mercury is the lead singer of the rock band Queen and has nothing to do with cycling (except for that one song) and he has a fantastic mustache. 

PURPLE 

In the early days of BWR, riders were given a “purple card” with which they were allowed to self-police their fellow riders who were acting anti-socially. Not taking their turn on the front, riding dangerously, or not playing well with others in some way. At times a "purple jersey" award has been given out for a rider who did something particularly egregious.

FRED

“Fred” is used as a pejorative in cycling. At the BWR, someone who is being a jerk to other riders is a Fred, and is deserving of the Purple Jersey. Don’t be a purple freddy. 

PURPLE FREDDY

Put it all in a bag and shake it up, you get FREDDY MERCKXURY. A Belgian hard-man cyclist who comically embodies all of the worst stereotypes of road cycling. He is the 5-time winner of the purple jersey for his consistent poor sportsmanship. And you can talk to him.