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Rider Profile

Sergio Henao is one of the most exciting talents to come out of South America in years and has been a revelation since bursting onto the European scene at the start of 2012. Although a win eluded him last season, the Colombian achieved 12 top-five results and earned himself a spell in the Giro d’Italia white jersey before finishing second behind Rigoberto Urán in the young riders classification.

Henao also achieved a top-10 finish at the Giro - his first Grand Tour appearance – and during the rest of the season earned himself a reputation as one of the top climbers in the sport. It is the high mountains stages where Henao undoubtedly flourishes, although his ability to power up short, sharp ascents makes him a threat in the lumpier one-day races.

Q & A

Who inspired you to start cycling?
It was my father who inspired me when I was young.
First bike:
A Trek mountain bike
Childhood heroes:
I don't have heroes, but people I respect like former world time trial champion Santiago Botero.
What do you love most about cycling?
Cycling is my job but it is also my life. It feels strange when a day goes by and I don't ride my bike.
What has cycling taught you?
About sacrifice and that in life you get out what you put in.
Previous teams:
2007-09 Colombia es Pasion; 2010 Gobernacion de Antioquia
Favourite race:
The Giro last year was great but Liege-Bastogne-Liege is also a very special race.

Career highlight:
Last year was incredibly special as it has been a lifelong project to reach this level and ride for this kind of team.
Interests away from cycling:
Spending time with my girlfriend, family and friends. Living in Colombia I am rarely at home.
If you weren't a rider, what would you be?
I'd probably be working as a PE teacher in Colombia.
Favourite film:
Iron Man
Favourite music:
Spanish pop.

Career Highlights

2008

Vuelta a Colombia under-23 - 1st overall and two stage wins; Vuelta al Valle del Cauca - 2nd overall

2009

GP du Portugal - 1st overall and 1st stage three; Cinturon a Mallorca - 1st overall; Coupe des Nations Ville Saguenay - 3rd overall and 1st stage three; Tour de Beauce - 2nd overall

2010

Vuelta a Colombia - 1st overall and two stage wins; Clásico RCN - 1st stage seven and 2nd overall; Vuelta a Antioquia - 1st stage three and 2nd overall