Reto Hollenstein: «Dangers lurk everywhere on the Challenge Mallorca»

For Reto Hollenstein, the thought of winning remains the best motivator.

The 28 year old Swiss rider will repeat that to anyone willing to listen.  Having the chance to raise his arms in victory is his goal in every race.

For the 183 kilometer Trofeo Ses Salines, the lanky (197cm) IAM Cycling rider put his considerable power and good positioning sense at the service of his teammate Vicente Reynes, who repaid the team’s effort by taking a strong 5^th place for this second day of racing in Mallorca.

In spite of the commitment shown by IAM Cycling’s Roger Kluge and Reto Hollenstein, Reynes, who comes from Mallorca, had to admit to being out-sprinted by Sacha Modolo (Lampre Merida), who already won the sprint on Sunday in the first event of the Mallorca Challenge.

Nevertheless, Reto Hollenstein still believes in the chances of IAM Cycling to come away with a victory here, despite the possibilities for accidents and the strong competition present on the island.

“Dangers lurk everywhere when racing in Mallorca.  Today we had to fight against a violent wind and even some rain.   Many riders in the pack were nervous.  Under these conditions, everyone wants to be at the front.  One must be careful not to crash.  We focused on keeping Vincente safe and well positioned.  But it was not easy considering the conditions.” 

Since he would like to be selected for the teams being sent to the Ardennes classics and the Tour of Romandie, Hollenstein is keen to show his best qualities between now and Wednesday.

“There is plenty to do.  I have good feelings in my legs.  The narrow roads and the climbs will encourage breakaway attempts.  I hope to join one of them and go for the win.”