Amstel Gold Race – David Tanner «I wanted to anticipate the final because I’m not really a punchy rider»

World Champion Michael Kwiatowski (Etixx-Quickstep) was not about to let anyone else win at the end of the 251 kilometer Amstel Gold Race, which was run under beautiful spring conditions.  The Pole managed to outsprint Alejandro Valverde and Michael Matthews at the front of a group of around 20 riders.  Racing with just six members since Thomas Degand was suffering from digestive troubles and Dries Devenyns had severe back pains, the IAM Cycling team nevertheless managed to play a big role in the goings-on throughout the day.  David Tanner was responsible for setting the race on fire with an attack 35 kilometers from the finish.  It took a strong acceleration from none other than Italian champion Nibali to bridge up to Tanner and his escape companion 10 kilometers from the finish.  For his part, Martin Elmiger did not quite have the resources he needed to gather up another top-10 result after his recent Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix exploits.

When asked to explain his day on the road, the Australian Tanner was able to remain clear in his description.  “For a good week I have been feeling really strong in the legs.  At the Flèche Brabançonne, I was able to get close, and so then I had the mission to be on the offensive in the final.  Chavanel and Elmiger were also among the protected riders.  So I wanted to make an attack to anticipate the antics in the finale, since I am not really a punchy rider.  Of course, Amstel is really my favorite race, and I had already done this in 2013.  I am feeling confident after these two races, so I am going to keep working hard.  One of these times, my efforts will be rewarded.”

Rik Verbrugghe could feel satisfied with his team’s race when assessing IAM Cycling’s day at the Amstel Gold Race.  “Aside the two riders not being able to start at the last minute, we still managed to influence the race.  David Tanner fully implemented the instructions that we gave to him before the race.  We aren’t a team that has the type rider who can compete with the best on a climb like the Cauberg.  Bad luck accompanied us again because without Caruso crashing out of the breakaway group, BMC would not have chased.  This is not to say that the win was within our reach, but David was confident.  Today was a waiting game because no one dared to start the hostilities.  But don’t they say that the winner is always right?”