Robert Gesink is ready for his first big stage race after his heart surgery when he lines up as Belkin leader in the Tour de Pologne. The Dutchman will use the race to build form for the Vuelta but also hopes to be competitive in the overall standings.

Robert Gesink hopes to progress towards the Vuelta a España in the Tour de Pologne, August 3 to 9. After a long period of training, the Belkin Pro Cycling TEAM rider is aiming to compete with the best in the stage race. 

“I went to the United States with my family and trained hard, and also had some time to hang out with my wife and daughter,” said Gesink. “I rode in Colorado and trained at altitude. I rode through several national parks. It was a magnificent trip. 

“During my last week in the States, I went to Park City to team up with the boys who will ride the Tour of Utah. They are ready for the second part of the season and I think I’m fine myself, as well.” 
 

The Tour of Poland will be Gesink’s first race since the Dutch national road race in Ootmarsum, June 29.

“It will be exciting to see what my level is, but I’ve been a pro for a long time now and I know what to do to get my body ready for a race. 

“I hope that towards the end of the race that I will be able to fight with the best. That’s why I returned from altitude shortly before the start of the race. 

“I rode the Tour of Poland once before and ended up second behind Johan Vansummeren. In Poland, I hope to improve for the Vuelta.” 
 

The last days of the Tour of Poland include two heavy mountain stages and a time trial.

“In these stages, the GC will be decided,” said Sports Director Michiel Elijzen. “I’m hopeful that Robert will significantly improve during the week and that he will be good enough to get in the mix in the mountains. 

“The first three stages are suitable for sprinters. So there we have some opportunities with Theo Bos, although we also have Paul Martens, who shouldn’t be overlooked for those kind of stages.” 
 

TEAM line-up:

Jack Bobridge, Theo Bos, Graeme Brown, Rick Flens, Robert Gesink, Paul Martens, Lars Petter Nordhaug and David Tanner.