Demanding course, difficult conditions
The course is very demanding. What looks quite unspectacular on paper turns out to be a tough touchstone in the race, which really demands everything from the drivers from the first to the last moment – physically and mentally. For us, during the first half of the race, the road was wet and slippery, tomorrow the pros should have a bit more luck with the weather. But even on dry roads you really have to be on your guard at all times. In our case, of course, there were also one or two less experienced drivers who are not used to such large fields and hectic racing situations. Don't get me wrong: It's really cool that boys from small countries also get the chance to ride here, but you still have to be careful because one or the other is a little more unpredictable on the road.
The roads and profile around the only longer climb, Salmon Hill, make this phase of every lap complicated and extremely important. You have to be in a good position right from the start, because on the longer descent the field spreads wide and if you have to go back to the front here, it costs a lot of grain. The pavé piece is also a little over a kilometer long and packs a punch. All in all, a really varied course that really has everything in it.
Great team result
For us as a team, the race with the silver medal for Lennard Kämna was of course terrific. It was clear that we would drive for Lennard because he came out of a strong Vuelta in a great way and is in really good shape. We kept him out of the hustle and bustle as much as possible during the race and made sure he never had to point his nose into the wind. When things got fast and the decisive phase was approaching, he was able to draw on unlimited resources and did a great job. The result is also a team result, but of course mainly thanks to Lennard, who is simply brutally strong.
Unfortunately, for me personally, things didn't quite go as I had hoped. Particularly annoying: In the fourth to last lap, a piece of paper got so stupidly caught between my spokes that it braked with every wheel revolution and could not be released. I then had to stop just as the race was picking up speed and of course I fell back a long way straight away. I did move up the field bit by bit, but that took a lot of strength and in the end I wasn't able to put as much weight on the scales as I would have liked.
Thumbs up for the venue
I know there was quite a bit of criticism about Bergen as a venue and the course. But for me personally it was a great decision. It starts with the varied circuit, which is a great challenge for the drivers, but also offers a lot of entertainment, especially for the spectators. Speaking of spectators: Unbelievable what was going on here. In the start/finish area there was a deafening roar on every lap, and at yesterday's award ceremony the market square was completely full of cheering fans. A really great, warm and inspiring atmosphere where every driver is very happy to start.
In any case, I'm excited to see who will ultimately be in front tomorrow. Precisely because I know the course, I can't make any predictions with the best will in the world. Sure, drivers like Matthews, van Avermaet or Sagan are the favorites on paper, but really anything can happen here. Let us surprise.
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