American rider Aaron Olson, like most other pro racers, has the goal of one day taking part in the...
In the most aggressive rider's jersey (Image credit: Alicia Frese)
Speaking more than 'Spanglish'
American rider Aaron Olson, like most other pro racers, has the goal of one day taking part in the Grand Tours. But unlike the majority of professionals, particularly North American riders, Olson is getting his chance to race in the 'Big Show' next season. Following in the footsteps of Tim Johnson and Chris Horner, Olson will be the next American addition to the Saunier Duval-Prodir ProTour squad. Having virtually just stepped off the plane from his first trip to Spain, Cyclingnews' Mark Zalewski spoke with Olson as he headed for some final training in San Diego.
Being Mister Consistency is how Aaron Olson likes to describe the main reason behind his selection to the Saunier Duval-Prodir team; and since it's a Spanish team, I suppose that name will soon become Señor Consistencia! This, combined with the fact that Scott USA would like to have an American on the team to replace Chris Horner added to his name making it to the top of the pile. "I think in part it's Scott USA wanting to have an American in the team - not that it has to be - but wanting to have some influence," Olson explains.
"That helped me, and also having a couple of consistent years. No real huge wins like [Charles] Dionne at San Francisco, but just consistency and showing people that I can work. That was a thing [Chris] Horner said; if you want someone who is really consistent and can show up everyday and do his job well, then I would be a good choice. I got lots of help from Horner - his words probably made the biggest impact - and our coach is the same so he made some contact with Mauro Gianetti as well. And Scott Montgomery (Scott USA) had a part in choosing the American, whichever one it was."
