Nathan Haas is yet to raise his arms in triumph this year but the Dimension Data rider was arguably one of the riders of the early-season. Currently racing the Tour of Slovenia as he embarks on the second half of his season, the Australian has inserted himself into the 2017 season narrative due to his consistency and aggressive approach to racing. Haas is aiming is cap off his year with a debut World Championships appearance, a new contract, and a top-20 ranking in the WorldTour.
One of several current riders to enter the WorldTour ranks via the Andrew Christie-Johnston pathway, including Richie Porte, Haas knows how to win, as his two Japan Cups and overall victories at the Tour of Britain and Herald Sun Tours titles attest. However, in 2017 the 28-year-old has gone to another level and become a key rider for Dimension Data. Of the team's 1530 WorldTour points, he has contributed 695. Omar Fraile, by comparison, is second with 140 points.
"I have always known I can be at the front end of these races, it's just more mentally that I've learnt how to trust myself a lot more in those stressful moments and painful moments," Haas told Cyclingnews in a phone interview.
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"You have to try and stay as calm as possible. This year, I think that's what I have become a lot better at mentally engaging but at the same time, being relaxed. Not being scared to miss the moment, just being strong enough of mind to know you'll be there when it does get hard."
Haas' second place on Willunga Hill behind a rampaging Richie Porte during the Tour Down Under was early evidence of this change in approach. Post-stage, Haas spoke of working on his breathing techniques in the off-season and remaining calm in the moment, riding his own race. However, the following week at the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race he "got a little bit cocky there and definitely over raced it and paid for it”.
After his run of third at nationals, fourth at Tour Down Under, seventh in the Great Ocean Race, and 10th at the Tour of Oman, it was back to Europe and Girona for Haas, with his attention turned to the Ardennes Classics. Despite being 'stung' by the removal of the Cauberg from the Amstel Gold Race, Haas was one of the riders to make the race despite being on antibiotics on the eve of the hilly Dutch classic.
Tour de France selection
Road Worlds debut
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