The third edition of the Arctic Race of Norway is ready to kick off.  Born out of the accomplishments in past Tours de France by the recently retired Thor Hushovd, the event plays on the popularity of cycling in the country, in spite of the fact that sometimes the weather conditions can be difficult.  This is a race that has always offered a great deal of suspense in all editions.  Each time, the overall rankings were decided on only the last stage, using the time bonus game at the finish line.

For its second participation in this event organized by Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO), IAM Cycling has selected six riders who will be likely to shine throughout the race, no matter whether the stages are reserved for sprinters, or those hillier stages that will ultimately decide the overall. Pirmin Lang has distinguished himself as the perfect teammate, and has taken all possible care to be in top form in order to help his team leaders after racing the Tour de Wallonie. 

“After the Swiss road race championships, I took a week off, and then after that I started to work hard in order to be on top form for the rest of my program.  I did not join the riders at the Bernina training camp.  I stayed home and slept in a tent that simulates altitude.  And since I am not a big fan of scorching heat, I resolved to train early every morning between 7:30 and 12:30. 

"I did some great endurance sessions, and I followed the program prepared by my coach Marcello Albasini.  This proved effective because I was able to do the work I needed to do at the Tour de Wallonie.  And the reward was there since we came away with a victory. 

"In Norway, my freshness should be an asset and allow me to help our guys who could win a stage and even the overall classification.  For the sprints, we will rely on Sondre Holst Enger, and we should be able to put two or three guys on the front of the pack with 500 meters to go.  As for the general classification, I think that Martin Elmiger will show his strength in those two more difficult stages.”

Riders

Stef Clement (Ned)

Martin Elmiger (S)

Sondre Holst Enger (Nor)

Mathias Frank (S)

Pirmin Lang (S)

Marcel Wyss (S)