Cycling in Mallorca – Interview with Amber Neber and Alexander Kamp from the Vélo Concept cycling team

Amber Neben and Alexander Kamp from the Vélo Concept team have a strict new programme. They’ve done hundreds of kilometres in Mallorca, and it’s still just January!

A great number of cyclists and professional and international cycling teams meet in Mallorca, not to enjoy a holiday, but to start the great race in cycling of the 2017 season, the Playa de Palma – Challenge Ciclista Mallorca. Along with their team, Vélo Concept, they have their headquarters at Hotel Pabisa Bali, one of the most well known cycling hotels. In the interview they talk about racing as professional cyclists, as well as their goals and the island of Mallorca. Thanks Amber Neben and Alexander Kamp.

Amber Neber, hailing from California, USA has been a professional cyclist since 2004. Alexander Kamp, from Denmark, has been cycling on international teams since he was 18.

What are your goals as professional cyclists?

A.K: I want to become the Danish champion this year and win some UCI races. A.N: I’d like to win the time trial at the world championship and finish on the podium with my team as TTT world champions.

What do you value about your road bike training in Mallorca?

A.K: There are great roads and mountains here as well as a pleasant climate. A.N: Mallorca has all possible types of terrain for training and at short distances from each other.

What advice would you give to cyclists who are training in Mallorca?

A.K: Eat enough energy bars, since the training sessions are going to be long. A.N: Be prepared for a variety of terrain conditions, since the roads are highly varied.

What is important to you about the cycling races in Mallorca?

A.K: They are perfect for starting the season and seeing how in shape the competition is after winter.

What is the greatest challenge in the Challenge Ciclista Mallorca XXVI?

A.K: At the start of the season, it’s very difficult for your legs to get used to the time trail competition and the mountains.

Why do you like coming to Mallorca to train?

A.K: The weather and the routes are suitable. Amber: The island shows off its beauty in both colours and nature in both spring and autumn.

We hope you’ve enjoyed your stay at Hotel Pabisa Bali. What has stood out most to you?

A.K: I really like the personal service. It makes things easier for our mechanics as well as us as cyclists. A.N: The service is excellent and highly personal. The views I’ve got from my balcony are also just spectacular.