Mark Cavendish says Dubai Tour success proves he is 'on target' for successful spring campaign
Monday 9 February 2015 18:59, UK
Mark Cavendish said his two stage wins and overall victory at the Dubai Tour are proof that he is “on target” for a successful spring campaign.
Cavendish secured only the third stage-race title of his career by sprinting to his second win of the four-day event on Saturday’s final stage.
The Etixx – Quick-Step rider will now turn his attention to the spring classics, and in particular Milan-San Remo, which he is hoping to win for the second time on March 22.
He said: “It wasn't really something I was expecting, but it was something special to finish off with the GC [general classification] win.
“This also shows I am on target for my next goals in the racing calendar. It is super encouraging for what is next.”
Milan-San Remo is one of cycling’s five one-day Monument classics and while it is traditionally won by sprinters, a spree of late climbs ensure the finish is contested by a much-reduced bunch.
Cavendish proved his climbing form by finishing an impressive 17th on the hilly third stage of the Dubai Tour.
Although he lost the leader’s jersey to John Degenkolb on the day, he limited his losses to the German to just 10 seconds with a dogged display, which proved crucial in regaining the lead 24 hours later.
