Nathan Haas

The Australian on his love of Amstel Gold Race and why he should have been a ballet dancer

What’s your favourite race?

The Flanders-Roubaix duo might seem the more epic, hardcore, hard-men spectaculars, but I’d argue that Amstel Gold Race is on the same level, just with a wider range of skills needed. There are many similarities in the courses too: tiny roads that are like a board of snakes and ladders; a constant battle for position and short, steep, punchy climbs. You need deep knowledge of the twistiest course ever in order to judge the all-important crosswinds. There are climbs which also bring in the pure Ardennes specialists, so it’s a true fight between the skilled climbers and the powerful cobbles specialists.

Who’s the best domestique in the peloton?