Grischa Niermann is a valuable domestique for the Dutch Rabobank team. He is getting ready to start his third Tour of California, where he has a little more leeway than in other races. The German is excited to race in the Golden State.
"The Tour of California is a world class event," he said in an interview on rabosport.nl. "I am really looking forward to the race in the pretty state of California. The Tour of California is also important for me as a professional, as Rabobank, our sponsor, is also co-sponsor for the race."
After a tough European winter with lots of snow and rain, there are a few reasons in favor of the Tour of California. "Mostly the good weather, the many enthusiastic fans, the great race and a little bit of sightseeing," Niermann said.
Niermann is also using the race in the USA as a preparation for the Tour de France, hoping to make the Tour selection. "I hope to be in good form and show some strong performances."
He has had a good lead-up to the one-week race, with Liège-Bastogne-Liège giving him a good base. "After the classics I took a few days off, then started to train a lot for the Tour of California."
Since he has less of a helper's role, things are a bit more open for Niermann. "I hope to achieve some good results. With the team, we aren't among the favorites for the overall classification, but we do have a few strong youngsters, who have chances in certain stages and the time trial."
Niermann is now in good shape, unlike when he was 15 years old. "I was small and bulky and I wanted to lose weight. No joke."