HTC Highroad directeur Brian Holm has spoken about the winning mentality of Mark Cavendish, saying that when the rider focuses on something, it is ‘almost scary.’
Holm was speaking prior to yesterday’s time trial, which was won by Tony Martin. The team has a chance of taking its second consecutive win today when Cavendish tries to take yet another win on the Champs Elysées. Holm told VeloNation that he believes the victory is possible, and that if he does it, he could set a big achievement.
“I am not sure about it, but somebody told me if he wins tomorrow, he would make history as nobody has won three times in a row on the Champs Elysées. I think he can do that,” he said.
Holm spoke at length about the rider, giving an insight into his mentality. They have worked together for many years and he has seen how Cavendish responds to different situations and challenges. He has had to deal with allegations this year that he has been taking a tow on climbs, and Holm said that he set out to prove a point on Friday’s mountain stage.
“When he focuses on something, he is almost scary. There were so many stories about sticky bottles, hanging on to the car…basically, nonsense. He was so angry about it. Climbing up Telegraphe, Galibier…they said on the radio Maillot Jaune, Maillot Blanc, Maillot Pois. All the jerseys were in the first group, already 40 or 50 riders were dropped. Then they said ‘Maillot Vert, the green jersey of Cavendish.’ I was like ‘f** - he’s still in there’.
“Good riders like Greipel and Rojas were dropped before him, so I think quite a few people shut up yesterday, seeing him climbing. He is an excellent sprinter, and now it looks like he can climb.”
In addition to discussing the green jersey success of this year, Holm also speaks about what Cavendish can achieve in the short to medium term and further ahead. This year’s world championships and the all-time record of Tour de France stage wins are all within his reach, he feels, providing things go to plan.
To watch the full interview, click below.