Thomas Dekker wrapped up Tirreno Adriatico today. The young Dutchman known as the “other Dekker” or “Younger Dekker” is quickly making a name for himself at age 21. The latest young sensation can climb a bit and time trial well which is how he won Tirreno Adriatico. Next up is playing support man for Oscar Friere who will try and steal away another win on the Via Roma Saturday.
Suddenly, Rabobank looks like a formidable team. With a win under Dekker’s belt and two riders holding the GC lead, the Dutch team can be proud of their recent performance. Now, they have possibly three or more riders that can contend for victory in Milan San Remo Saturday.
Michael Boogerd is a veteran that cannot be totally counted out. Mr. Best Teeth in the Peloton is usually able to mix up the action in the classics. Last year he was Danilo DiLuca’s whipping boy in Fleche Wallone and Amstel. This year, he will face less pressure from his team since they have a few other riders to share the burden of getting a result.
Oscar Friere seems to be back in form. Mr. Constant Comeback’s performance is waxing again, and at the right time too. His sprint and punching climbing ability meshes very well with the demands of Milan San Remo. He won the course before on a never give up bike launch that caught Erik Zabel (the ultimate professional cyclist) off guard as he celebrated a bit too soon. Could Friere strike again?
Juan Antonio Flecha is another constant danger for a race like MSR. Mr Archery victory salute may make for a long breakaway that could have the chance to stick. If he escapes at the right time, we may see the arrow salute once again.
The Orange and Blue can take comfort in that the color combo is good luck. Just ask Gerry MaCNamara, who single handedly helped the Orange win the Big East Title and get a sweet berth in the NCAAs. Can Thomas Dekkar help inspire his Orange and Blue team like GMac?
chris
I thought Rabo didn’t have an awful year last year, actually. Once the tests were finished, they won the Vuelta. Plus the maillot pois and 12 PCT wins. Yet there’s something about Rabo that makes it surprising to find they didn’t suck. Maybe Boogerd’s perpetual second place in the Amstel.
Velochimp
Yes, that is true. Who could forget the performance of Menchov in the Vuelta and “The Chicken” in the Tour. They just seem to be more on form early this year. Plus with Flecha and a rejuvanated Friere, they could be tough in Milano San Remo.