Biography

Born in Moldavia to a poor family and in a country that didn't hold cycling in its heart at the time, Alexandr Pliuschin is a rider with a story that has taught him to appreciate the small things in life and overcome the roadblocks that blocked his path. His father was a cyclist, but the dream of seeing his son follow in his footsteps was at first denied when the young child was diagnosed with a muscular malfunction, preventing him from walking until he was over 4 years of age. Despite the doctors' advice to the contrary, Alexandr's father bought him a bike for his birthday, hoping this would help him get better. With his mother's constant encouragement, the boy grew healthier and healthier, until he had caught up with his friends in physical capacity. Pliuschin’s love for the bike grew bigger. Soon he won his first national race and dedicated the win to his mother, who had been diagnosed with cancer and who would die shortly after. All these events, topped with some broken bones and injuries, contributed to the Moldavian leader of LEOPARD TREK being extremely motivated to make the best out of the talent he received.