Jonas Gregaard is a young Danish rider who will join the Astana team in 2019. I had the pleasure of speaking with him about his career and his goals.
Cycling Times: When did you start cycling?
Jonas Gregaard: I started there 12 years in a local club called DCR Ballerup. I just loved cycling from the first time I was on a road bike, but the early years, I was really bad in all the races. I was always loose, but I always finished shopping. Then , after some years, it went much better, I started winning some races and then it got better and better!
CT: Ok, this is quite an unusual start for a professional… what can you tell me about your progression to your current level ? What was your first significant result ?
JG: Hard work is the key for me. Not U19, I really started to get good results! And every year, I try to improve myself a little more ! But hard work pays for me
CT: Yes of course hard work is the key, it is not easy, but it's the best way to improve. You will be joining Astana Pro Team next year… Can you tell me a bit about how they started to take an interest in you?
JG: eh good, I think they started to take an interest in me after my last two seasons. I had a good season and then this winter, me and my agent talked with them about joining the team as an intern.
CT: Super ! What are you waiting for next year?
JG: First of all it's a really great opportunity that I had, and I'm really looking forward to joining the team for real ! But I think the most important thing is to continue my development and I think Astana is the best team for me.. I am also looking forward to helping all the guys on the team
CT: Yes, I really wish you to become always stronger, and I hope you will have a brilliant career! Who is your favorite rider in the team? What do you think of being in Vinokurov's team ?
JG: Merci. I think that was it. It will be interesting to work with all members of the team.
CT: What are your favorite races? ?
JG: mountain races
CT: So, you are more of a climber, then Astana is perfect for you! How do you prepare for your goals in general, can you briefly explain your preparation ?
JG: Normally, I'm going to a training camp in the mountains, for me it is really good to spend a lot of time in the mountains. Long efforts and also many intervals of 40-20, they are really effective !
