Romain Bardet: Third was the best place possible for today
Apr 23 2018 03:01 am CET
Photo of Romain Bardet by the A.S.O.
With a third place in Liege-Bastogne-Liege, Romain Bardet (AG2R La Mondiale) continued his habit of finishing in the top 15 whenever he starts in the race.
Bardet already knows what is like to be on the podium of the race as he was second in 2011 in the U23 version and now he got to be on the podium of the elite competition. "This is my sixth participation and I am still improving my methods," he said. "I have more landmarks, more cold-bloodedness. It's certainly a race that inspires me. When you are on the podium, you are compelled to look ahead to the sequel."
The rider attacked on the last kilometres along with EF Education First's Michael Woods and with Bob Jungels far ahead, the pair fought for the second position. "I knew Woods was faster than me in a sprint, and unfortunately he stuck to my wheel to the end," Bardet explained. "He was waiting for the sprint and I had to take my responsibilities in order to stay away from the bunch. Julian tried to bridge but died on our heels. Third was the best place possible for today.
"When I saw that the victory was decided, I gave everything for the podium. Jungels succeeded in accomplishing a great cycling feat. He took advantage of the marking going on, and was very strong physically himself. My team gave everything to support me all day and I am very proud, once again, of my friends and teammates.
Bardet will take a break and then finish off his preparations ahead of the Tour de France. "Now I'm finishing the first part of my season. I will thoroughly enjoy a few days of vacation before preparing for the summer."
SUBSCRIBE TO RSS FEEDS