Poitou-Charentes – Sylvain Chavanel «As if I was in my easy chair»

Sylvain Chavanel gave IAM Cycling its 13^th win of the season at the Tour de Poitou-Charentes.  In Poitiers, the leader of the Swiss Pro Continental team took 8^th in the sprint finale, which was won by Jesus Herrada (Movistar).  IAM Cycling figured in the top-10 also with Martin Elmiger who finished the stage in 10^th and the overall in 6^th place, while Matthias Brändle also found himself in an excellent 10^th place in the overall standings.

Before turning his attentions to the GP de Plouay, Sylvain Chavanel was pleased to lock down this third overall victory in a race that practically takes place in his back garden.

“Racing at home is always a bit special and it is of course motivating, though I will be hanging another number on my jersey soon.  I managed to ride a strong time trial and the winning gap was enough so that I could ride the final stage as if in my arm chair.  I must thank the team for all the good work done throughout the week.  I could have never done it alone.  All races are characterized by the selflessness of the teammates.  Now I am off to Plouay with great feelings, even though it is a strange race.  I already know it will be difficult.”

Eddy Seigneur, directeur sportif for IAM Cycling, enjoyed the result as much as he enjoyed the manner in which it was achieved.

“The whole team got on board and took control of a breakaway containing five riders.  And that the sprint stage ended with a top-10 place for both Chavanel and Elimger is great.  Sylvain not only won the overall, but we have also come out on top in the team rankings too.  This importance of this is nothing to downplay.  After our complicated week in Limousin, we found our groove again in Poitou-Charentes, and that only bodes well for our chances in Plouay.” 

photos – Etienne Garnier @ VeloFotoPro