After racking up just one race day since the Tour de Romandie, Romain Bardet is about to embark on the most testing period of his season. The Critérium du Dauphiné, starting on Sunday, is a crucial race in preparation for the Tour de France, where the Frenchman will look to improve on last year’s sixth place. As if that weren’t enough, sandwiched between the two are his final university exams.
The 24-year-old doesn’t seem phased, though, and claims he is exactly where he wants to be – in better shape, even, than last year.
“I know that I am both more mature and stronger than last year,” said the Ag2r-La Mondiale rider. “I’m happy with how the beginning of my season has gone and I am really pleased to see that I could be in contention on some important races. This corresponds to the evolution that I want.
ADVERTISEMENT
“For example, I saw this on the Tour de Romandie. I took great pleasure in attacking the Tour favourites, and I also showed that I can ride a good time trial.”
Bardet’s promising showing at the Tour last year was preceded by a strong Dauphiné. He finished fifth on a star-studded general classification and was second on the mountain stage to Courchevel. Nevertheless, he doesn’t expect to be competing for the overall win this time.
“The Dauphiné is a race that allows for trying things and to ride freely. I am coming in with the desire to get back in action after a long training and reconnaissance period. It will be a chance to validate this work.
You can read more at Cyclingnews.com
via Cyclingnews Latest News http://ift.tt/1ANlBRZ
No comments:
Post a Comment