Garmin-Cervelo's Vande Velde to make a comeback at the Giro‘d Italia 2012
Christian Vande Velde decided not to ride at the Giro d’ Italia after he crashed out of the race in the previous two editions, in 2009 and 2010. However, the cyclist now announced that he will make a comeback at the Italian Grand Tour in 2012.
After witnessing a splendid season in 2011, he changed his mind and decided to return to the Giro. He also showed interest in the Tour de France for the coming season.
He stated, “I know I’m going back on myself because I said I wouldn’t do the Giro again, and I hope I’m not going to be putting myself in harm's way but I’ve come to realise that my body responds really well after a Grand Tour, and you could see that after
this year’s Tour de France”.
It is believed that Velde’s appearance at the Giro will be more than just a warm up for the Tour de France. He will be assisting his teammate, Ryder Hesjdal, and ensure his position at the podium.
Velde mentioned, “I think Ryder is going to be looking forward to the Giro, so I could be his wing man and look after him and obviously help Tyler out, so there will be plenty to do there”.
He further added that Giro d’ Italia is a Grand Tour and the idea to ride in a race of such calibre to train only is wrong and “long gone”.
The American will start his new season with the Tour of Oman, Tours of Majroca and will move to Spain later on.
He will ride the classics before finally moving to Italy for the Giro d’ Italia, he told Cyclingnews.
The 35-year-old will form the strong Garmin-Cervelo line-up at the Giro d’ Italia, where he will have the company of Ryder Hesjdal, Tyler Farrar and Tom Danielson.
It is believed that Dan Martin might miss the Giro to preserve his strength for Team Garmin at the Tour de France 2012.
Velde will race at the Giro but his main goal for the coming season is the final general classifications at the Tour de France 2012.
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