Sylvain Chavanel showed that he is getting into his best form for his first season objective, Paris-Nice, in early March when he finished 3rd in today's time trial in the Tour Mediteraneen. Despite being just 10 seconds from scoring IAM's first win of the season, the Frenchman was happy with his ride that sets him up for more success in the race's to come.

The first victory of the 2014 season for IAM Cycling is not far off judging by their performance Saturday.  In the double stage day at the Tour of the Mediterranean, the Swiss professional team notched up important results for both outings. 

In the morning stage 3, won again by John Degenkolb (Giant-Shimano), Jérôme Pineau showed his speed and smarts by taking fourth in the massive sprint.  And in the afternoon, Pineau’s friend and teammate Sylvain Chavanel one-upped him by securing 3rd place for the 18 kilometer time trial stage 4, coming just 10 seconds slower than stage winner Steve Cummings (BMC).

Chavanel, a multiple Time Trial Champion for France, has put himself in an excellent position to succeed defending the overall victory that Thomas Löfkvist took for the team in 2013.  All will become clear on Sunday after the riders tackle the Mont-Faron climb.

As soon as he passed the finish line Sylvain Chavanel acknowledged that he was pleased to have done so well, even if “only the victory really counts.” 

 “I had good feelings in my legs, considering this is my first time trial of the season," he said. " I started well and even caught the rider who started in front of me within 3 kilometers of riding.  I managed to keep a good pace throughout the hilly and highly technical course.  But I must admit, I lacked the strength to power through the final gear in my setup. 

"It is early in the year and we are just starting at the Tour of the Mediterranean, so I am reassured to know that I am in a rhythm.  Of course, we are happiest when we get the victory at the end of the effort.  But then again, I know I gave my best and this is the most important thing.”

Chavanel will start tomorrow's queen stage as 3rd on GC, 10 seconds behind overall leader Cummings.