Preparing for the Giro d’Italia: Why the Tour of Turkey is IPT’s Perfect Training Ground

“Racing in Turkey is racing in good circumstances. The hotels are fine, the weather is nice, the racing is good, and it is – most importantly – an eight-day stage race, which can be the ideal training ground for the Giro d’Italia, which starts in three weeks,” states an article on Israel Premier Tech’s website. With the Giro d’Italia approaching, the Tour of Turkey becomes an important event for the team to fine-tune their preparation.

The Tour of Turkey offers valuable opportunities for climbers and sprinters alike. For climbers, the eight stages provide excellent endurance training for the grueling challenges of the Giro. On the other hand, the Tour of Turkey is particularly beneficial for sprinters due to its numerous flat stages.

Optimizing the Sprint Train

Performance coach Greg Henderson emphasizes the significance of the Tour of Turkey for sprinters. He explains, “There are five stages that surely end in a bunch sprint. We can learn from one stage, implement new tactics in another one, and develop the best possible setup for our sprint throughout this week of racing.” The team’s sprinter, Alex Dowsett, agrees with Henderson, highlighting the importance of constant practice to optimize the sprint train. “Even though some of us have been racing together for several years now, we make small changes every year,” says Dowsett.

Dowsett provides an example of the evolving dynamics within the team, stating, “Last year, we had Davide Cimolai. He left this year. So we need to back him up. I now have a different role on the train. I moved up one position to the final, and I am now the second-last rider before the sprinter. That is a different role in a different part of the race and requires adjustments.”

Gaining Experience and Developing Tactics

The Tour of Turkey serves as an ideal race to gain experience and develop tactics for flat stages. It allows Israel – Premier Tech to refine their strategies and teamwork. For the Tour of Turkey, Itamar Einhorn is the designated sprinter, while Giacomo Nizzolo will take on the role for the Giro d’Italia. Nizzolo’s recovery from a wrist injury will see him start in La Flèche Brabançonne and join the sprint train in Eschborn-Frankfurt on May 1st.

As the Tour of Turkey takes place, Israel Premier Tech’s participation in the race is vital in their preparation for the upcoming Giro d’Italia. With the opportunity to fine-tune their sprint train, gain valuable race experience, and refine their tactics, the team is using this eight-day stage race as the perfect training ground.