NAME: Ian Boswell

HOMETOWN: Bend

AGE: 21

TEAM: Bontrager-Livestrong

PODIUM FINISH: 2012 Liège-Bastogne-Liège

When did you start competing?

I began racing BMX when I was 7, and started racing on the road at age 11.

What’s your strength as a rider?

Heavy climbing races at altitude. I like stage races that are hard day after day.

What would you consider to be the chief motivation for getting this far in cycling?

It’s simply part of what I do, I love to ride and race my bike. I am thankful that I am able to make a career out of my lifelong hobby.

Tell us about the team.

We are a twelve-man professional development team (eight Americans, two Belgians and two Kiwis). Axel Merckx (son of Eddy Merckx) and Lance Armstrong have selected all of the riders for their potential to one day compete in the Tour de France. The goal of the team is to make the transition from development to the UCI ProTour easier.

How much coaching do you get from Lance Armstrong?

Lance is the biggest kid on the team. He just wants to turn every training ride into a race. His drive and focus continually show us what it takes to be successful in a sport where only a few rise to the top. Lance is a true professional both on and off the bike. His coaching is never-ending.

What are your favorite rides in Oregon? Outside of Oregon?

Mt. Hood Cycling Classic and of course the Cascade Classic are close to my heart and home. Giro d’Valle Aosta is not close to home, but riding in the shadow of Mont Blanc day after day is quite humbling and spectacular.