Hi there, my name is Alex Vogel and below is an archive of my life.
There are tales of stunning greatness and moments of dire misery,
as told by those who thought they knew me - and some who actually did.
After a lengthy break from story writing on PCM.Daily and having a few projects crumble in the process, I've decided it's time for me to put another story out in the world.
This adventure comes from an idea I've been cultivating for a few months now and is inspired by some of the stories I've been able to write over the last year as a full-time sports journalist. It's been a crazy ride that I'm still living, much in part due to PCM.Daily.
This story you are about to read is certainly different, as every story should be. I'd like to think I've gathered everything I've learned over the years on this site to make this story the best it can be, even with my hectic real-life schedule.
So, don't expect long drawn out race reports. But rather more short, insightful glances into Alex Vogel's life. Updates that I can maintain and not get overwhelmed with over a long period of time, which is something that has happened to me in the past.
Some things won't make sense, at least not right away. I can assure you that's done purposefully. Then, at the end, you should be able to read the story back and connect all the dots.
A part of the plot is pre-written, but a majority of the PCM gameplay involved will be authentic and not scripted; much like The Comeback.
I really hope you enjoy and feel free to leave comments as the story goes along. I try my best to keep readers engaged and spark conversations.
Updates will posted three times a week: Monday, Wednesday and Friday.
**DISCLAIMER: This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, businesses, places, events and incidents are either the products of the author's imagination or used in a fictitious manner. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental.**
Game Information
Spoiler
Version: PCM 15 Through Entry #15, Then PCM 17 Database: PCM.Daily 2016 V2 / PCM.Daily Lite Pack Difficulty: Extreme Crash Frequency: 200% Gameplay: Be a Pro Mode.
Entry #1 | June 1, 2016: Interview with Team Manager Arthur van Dongen
Note: A translated excerpt from a Dutch local newspaper.
You only got a couple months left. Are you going to miss it?
Of course, I have enjoyed every minute working and developing the cyclists here. It's a shame the program has to fold and it's out of my hands. But, that's a part of the sport. Teams fold. It happens, life moves on.
What do you plan to do next?
I'm not sure yet, but I'll be fine. I'm more concerned about the cyclists who still haven't found a home for next season... like Nino Honigh and Alex Vogel.
Well, here is a chance to make a pitch for them. Go on.
Thank you. Nino has been with us for the past few seasons, but hasn't raced at all this season because he had to get surgery on his knee. He is a fighter though and wants to get the back on the bike in the coming months.
As for Alex, the kid never gives up. Undersized? Sure. But, a heart of a champion. I took Vogel under my wing at a young age, but this was the first season AV raced professionally. Just so much potential that I couldn't let it go to waste. I've tried countless times to convince the higher ups at LottoNL-Jumbo to give the kid a chance, but the 'risk outweighs the reward.' That's bull****.
Edited by Mresuperstar on 07-07-2017 15:41
This looks amazing Mre and a very good start already, hyped for this story
24/02/21 - kandesbunzler said “I don't drink famous people."
15/08/22 - SotD said "Your [jandal's] humour is overrated"
11/06/24 - knockout said "Winning is fine I guess. Truth be told this felt completely unimportant." [PT] Xero Racing
@All: Amazing to see all the support. Means a lot. While I like to write for my entertainment, it's nice others can get enjoyment out of it as well.
I purposely started this on Thursday to give you back-to-back updates, which I'll try my hardest to follow a Monday, Wednesday and Friday posting schedule. And I've already got multiple updates stored away and ready to publish for you all.
So, next update coming when I wake up.
@Croatia14: It's only 1 post, don't jump too far ahead. But, thanks.
@DiCyc: Thanks for reading!
@Ian Butler: Appreciate it old pal.
@Tamijo: I hope it lives up to expectations.
@sutty68: Glad to be back. Thanks.
@Selwink: You're forgiven (I guess). Somebody had to say it.
@jandal7: Glad you like it. Hopefully I can keep the hype train rolling.
Entry #2 | May 14, 2016: Observation with Teammate Nino Honigh
Note: On bus after team competed at the cobbled Ronde van Overijssel.
A part of me wants what Alex has. That ability to chase a dream. I don't know if I will ever get that opportunity again. The team doctor says my knee will eventually heal, but it's going to be a long road to recovery.
All I can do now is watch, getting dragged along to provide moral support.
Anyways, Overijssel was a fantastic race. The home support was amazing. Alex had just an incredible ride. No victory, but a performance to remember - one of many so far this season.
Yet, results like that never make the papers. It wasn't that special. But, for those in the inner circle, it was rather impressive.
I'm not going to lie. It's hard not telling people the truth. But, it's what Alex wants. I don't know how long this will last, but I'm interested in seeing what the future holds.
This could be the greatest story never told, or a disaster waiting to happen.
Edited by Mresuperstar on 07-07-2017 15:42
The next great Haimar Zubeldia, except it's intentional, is my guess right now Really intrigued and not sure where this is going, but I love it
24/02/21 - kandesbunzler said “I don't drink famous people."
15/08/22 - SotD said "Your [jandal's] humour is overrated"
11/06/24 - knockout said "Winning is fine I guess. Truth be told this felt completely unimportant." [PT] Xero Racing
@jandal7: Figuring out where this is going is going to be a majority of the story I feel. Think of it like trying to solve a mystery, I guess. It's fun reading your predictions in the meantime, knowing what I know.
@Tamijo:
@Selwink: I'm sure nobody wants to read about that.
Entry #3 | January 3, 2016: Conversation with Docter Benjamin Clos
Note: Preseason evaluation and examination.
Hi Ben, Alex Vogel. I'm here for my preseason check-up.
I think you are a little bit earlier Alex. I have to get through all the examinations for the Rabobank Dev team before I can get to you. Can you check if Jeroen Meijers finally stopped pressing his snooze button and made it in yet?
I haven't seen him. And Arthur didn't tell you? I should be on this list.
And Lance Armstrong didn't dope. Sorry Alex, I can't go out of order. It will mess up my files. You are just going to have to wait your turn. I know this probably isn't how you wanted to spend your Sunday, but I'll get to you soon enough.
No, seriously. I'm on this list. I made the team... Look, I'm right there.
Huh? That has to be a misprint. This can't be right. Alex, could you hold on for one moment? I'm just going to call Arthur. No offence, but he can't be serious.
Do what you got to do. I'm ready for my examination whenever you are.Edited by Mresuperstar on 07-07-2017 15:43
Somebody had to say it.
Really intrigued and not sure where this is going, but I love it 
