• How did you get into cycling and what was your last year like before you signed your first professional contract?

My father was into riding bikes while I was growing up. So when I was a child, I decided to start riding as well. I liked it immediately and after I finished 2^nd in my first race, I was hooked.

My last year as an amateur was really good. I won many races, and I got a lot of podiums. I was one of the best amateurs that year. By August that year, I started racing with a pro team.

• You are the only rider in your team with Grand Tour experience. What role does that give you in the team?

I’m part of this team, exactly the same as all of my teammates. The only difference is that I do share my experiences with the team, but in all honesty, the best way to learn is by racing.

• What is the most unique & special thing about cycling you can think of?

The most special and unique thing to me about cycling is riding in Grand Tours. I miss racing them. I hope to race one with this team soon.

• After being with Saunier Duval, a ProTour team, what differences do you see on Team Novo Nordisk?

Not much, except our racing program is a bit different.

• You are a seasoned professional within the peloton, how do manage your diabetes while racing?

I have lived with this condition since I was a child and I’ve learned to listen to my body. The constant glucose meter has also really helped me a lot to manage my diabetes while racing.

• What do you do to relax/switch off when you aren’t racing?

My favorite thing to do is spend time with my family.

• When you retire, would you like to stay in bike racing?

Currently, I’m not thinking about retirement at all, but yes, when it happens I’d like to remain in cycling.