Thomas De Gendt in line for the Vuelta a Espana and the 2012 Olympic Games
After his tremendous performances at the Giro d’ Italia, Thomas De Gendt is now setting his eyes at the most exalted cycling race of the season, the Vuelta a Espana 2012.
The cyclist is also hopeful to represent his country at the London Olympics which is scheduled right after the French Grand Tour.
He succeeded during the stage 7 of the Paris-Nice and rode brilliantly during the first Grand Tour race of the season, the Giro d’Italia.
Thomas finished first during the 20th stage of the race and also managed the third overall spot after the final general classification.
He finished 1 minute and 39 seconds behind the race leader, Ryder Hesjedal of Team Garmin-Barracuda with Joaquim Rodriguez of Team Katusha a the second position.
"It's anticipated that I will then ride the Vuelta but I doubt that I will go for the overall classification,” Gendt briefed.
“Better for me to pick out a few stages that I think I can win and try to keep myself fresh for the world championships that come afterwards [September 15-23]".
He told the Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad, "In the [Olympic] 200km road race I will be riding for Boonen and Gilbert".
"For the time trial it is difficult to estimate what is possible because it depends on who participates”.
“If [Tony] Martin, [Fabian] Cancellara and [Taylor] Phinney start then medal opportunities will be difficult”.
Thomas started his professional crusade with Team Unibet-Davo in 2006 and penned a deal with Team Davo for 2007-08 seasons.
He accepted an offer from Team Topsport Vlaanderen-Mercator for 2009-10 seasons before signing a two year deal with Team Vacansoleil-DCM.
De Gendt is expected to be accompanied by Tom Boonen and Philippe Gilbert at the Olympics and the trio will form a strong Belgian line up at the race.
The 25-year-old is all set to mark his Vuelta a Espana debut this year and is hopeful to repeat his Giro performance.
He also appeared in the Tour de France 2011 and occupied the 62nd overall position after the final general classifications.
It will be interesting to see if De Gendt manages to continue his Giro winning momentum at the Vuelta a Espana and the 2012 Olympic Games.
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