Former national under 23 champion Greg Van Avermaet wants to add the Elite title to his palmares, and is hoping to ride strongly in the Belgian nationals this Sunday.
The 25 year old has had a somewhat quieter time since winning a stage and taking the points classification in the 2008 Vuelta a España. He’s been getting some results, but hasn’t shown the expected progression from the 2007/2008 standout seasons.
His form has picked up of late, though, with Van Avermaet netting third on a stage of the Tour de Suisse and third again in yesterday’s Halle – Ingooigem. He wants to play down his chances a little, perhaps to stay out of the focus of the other riders, but also admits that it is a goal for him.
"My condition is good, but I do not consider myself a favorite," he told Sporza. “The Belgian championship is always important. I have already gone close a few times close and hopefully I will have it this year. I want to wear that jersey."
He is team-mates of Philippe Gilbert, one of the biggest favourites for the race. He admits that there is likely to be some sort of overlap. "We're the same type of rider, so that's not easy. But we will have a nice championships on a selective course."
The best chance for him might be if Gilbert and defending champion Tom Boonen mark each other closely, getting bogged down in marking each other’s attacks, and thus allowing someone like Van Avermaet to slip clear. He knows that he must seize any opportunity which is presented to him.
“The championship is a special race. You must look out for the right break.”
“My results were somewhat less [than expected], in the spring,” he continued. “I hope I can it pick up. The Belgian championship can make up for a lot…you have immediately a successful season.”
Wearing the black, red and yellow jersey also makes the wearer instantly recognisable in the bunch, bringing a lot of prestige and publicity. He’s certain to be a very satisfied rider if things go to plan on Sunday.