Ivan Basso keen to find the podium at the Volta a Catalunya 2012
After a terrific end to his 2011 campaign, Ivan Basso has struggled to register any wins in the current season.
The cyclist was eyeing the Tirreno-Adriatico to find his 2012 winning ways but could not match the likes of Taylor Phinney during the opening stage of the race.
Team BMC cyclist claimed the top spot during the opening stage of the race after finishing the race in a total time of 0:15:50.79.
Ivan Basso secured the 35th overall position at the race and is optimistic to improve his position for the coming stages of the race.
He cited, "I am thinking of this race as a step forward in my journey to the Giro d'Italia. The Giro del Trentino and the Tour de Romandie are the races that will decide if I will be competing for the maglia rosa".
"I see this race a little like my second season debut, I can't wait to have the perfect rhythm and I have to restore my confidence to the dynamics of a race".
"The Trentino has some very tough climbs and that will be great for my progress, but keeping up with the best riders will be tough".
Team BMC is currently leading the stage 1 Team’s classifications with Team Astana at the second and Team Colnago-CSF at the third position.
The 34-year-old finished first during the GP di Lugano and claimed the 7th overall spot at the Volta Catalunya and the Tour de France.
He occupied the top podium spot at the Giro di Padania along with the stage 4 win at the event. Ivan finished 4th overall during the 2011 version of the Tirreno-Adriatico.
Cadel Evans achieved the first position, with Robert Gesink at the second and Michele Scarponi finishing at the third spot.
Basso made his professional debut with Team Riso Scotti in 1999-2000 seasons.
He also stayed with Team Fassa Bortolo (2001-03), Team CSC (2004-06), Team Discovery Channel (2007) and penned a deal with Team Liquigas by the start of 2008 season.
The Italian is now targeting the 152 kilometre stage 2 of the race and is optimistic to improve his overall position at the event.
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