Rigoberto Uran's star shines brightly almost every time he gets a chance to wear his national jersey – enough to mention the unforgettable finale of the Olympic road race held in London or his impressive somersault on the final descent to the finish line in Florence. For that exact reason and further encouraged by his recent victory in the Grand Prix de Quebec, Colombia's team coach decided to build the team around the 28-year old Etixx – Quick-Step rider for the upcoming World Championship road race.
Names like Winner Anacona, Miguel Angel López, Járlinson Pantano, Carlos Quintero, Edwin Avila, Alex Cano, Carlos Alzate and Daniel Jaramillo do not seem to be the strongest Colombia currently has. Carlos Mario Jaramillo insists, though, that it's going to be all about Uran in the road race and eight remaining riders of the nine-man squad will enter the event with no other ambitions than supporting their captain.
“They have all raced in Europe, but the one who knows most, and knows how to position himself, is Urán,” said Jaramillo.
“He’ll act as the foundations and we all believe in him. It’s a big advantage for us – he has shown he’s in good shape and well motivated. And he has a team that is going to back him up. He knows how to race and above all he enjoys it. The course suits him. I believe in him and he’s going to give everything to put in a good performance.
“The circuit is about skill, expertise, knowing how to race and position yourself. The cobbled sector is short but will be decisive because it’s followed by a fast stretch that may decide the world champion. So positioning is so important.”
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