Spanish sprinter Oscar Freire is gunning to successfully defend his title in Milan-Sanremo, saying that at this point in time, he is well positioned as regards his build-up to the race.
The 34 year old has taken the Classic on three occasions, namely 2004, 2007 and 2010. “It’s my first major goal of the season and because of that, we are preparing from now. This winter I could rest well. I have not had health problems and I hope that helps me to get to Tirreno-Adriatico in good condition and, above all, to Milan-Sanremo,” he told Marca.
The Rabobank rider had previously spoken about retirement but strong performances in 2010 showed that he was still a contender in major races. He took that victory in Sanremo, and also triumphed in Paris-Tours, the Trofeo Calla Millor as well as two stages apiece in the Vuelta a Andalucia and the Vuelta al País Vasco. In addition to those successes, he was sixth in the road world championships.
Because of that, he’s motivated to continue and envisages an additional season after this one. “If this year goes well and I decide to continue in 2012, I’d like to get to the Olympic Games in London with options. That would be a great motivation,” he said.
Another target is to take what would be a record fourth world championship win. This year’s race in Copenhagen is expected to finish in a bunch gallop, and Freire is hoping to be a factor. He is also thinking of other objectives too.
“The Vuelta and the worlds are the other two big goals of the year, but also I would like to have the condition to go for the Amstel Gold Race,” he explained. “I’ve been close in other occasions and it’s time to win. I would not like to retire without winning that. Liege is also a race that attracts me a lot.”