Mathieu Hermans is a Dutch legend. He started racing in 1971 when he was 8-years-old. He didn't win right away when he was young. But by the time he was 15 he was raising his hands while riding across the finish line quite often. As an amateur he raced a number of World Championships for cyclocross and on the road. He even raced the great Tour de L' Avenir. He credits that race for making him realize he wasn't a climber.

In 1984 Mathieu decided to turn pro for the Orbea - Campagnolo team. He says his first three years were all about learning his craft. Once he focused on sprinting he hit the ground running. You honestly have to think about the competition his was facing. I'll drop a few names for you like Guido Bontempi, Sean Kelly, Olaf Ludwig to Eric Vanderaerden. This man won 6 stages in one La Vuelta and 9 stages overall. Because he raced for mainly Spanish teams many people mistakenly believe he only won in Spanish races which is simply not true. He's won a stage in the Tour de France, Tour de Romandie, and Paris Camembert to name a few.

In 1993 Mathieu retired. Over the years he's works as a commentator for Dutch TV, a team director and for the last 25 years he's been working for cycling clothing company Bio Racer.

I hope you enjoy this interview with one of the greats of cycling.