Omer Goldstein’s Hunger for Success: A Glimpse Into His Racing Mind
After a successful performance at the Coppi e Bartali, Omer Goldstein is not content to rest on his laurels. The Israeli cyclist is determined to improve and achieve even greater success in future races.
Reflecting on his recent achievements, Goldstein expressed his hunger for more victories, stating, “I woke up unsatisfied. I thought that I needed to find a way to get better, so next time around, when I face two guys trying to break me, I would be able to end the battle with a win and not a third-place podium.”
Goldstein’s dedication and determination have not gone unnoticed by his sports director, Claudio Cozzi, who believes that this kind of passion is exactly what the team needs. Cozzi stated, “That’s the pure hunger and passion this team needs…He has matured both in his character and racing decision-making and we saw he can fight successfully for results with the best.”
Recognizing the importance of strategic thinking in racing, Goldstein shared his realization that being the smartest, rather than the strongest, can make all the difference. He stated, “I realized that I need to use my head more when I race. That you don’t need to be the strongest but the smartest…I feel more and more like a poker player, and it definitely makes a difference.”
Goldstein’s strategic mindset was evident in his performances at the Coppi e Bartali and the Tour du Rwanda, where he showcased his ability to make the right moves at the right time. He believes that he now has a fighting chance in every scenario.
While Goldstein’s individual efforts have been commendable, he also acknowledges the importance of teamwork. He credits his teammates for their hard work and singles out Chris Froome as his role model. Goldstein admires Froome’s selflessness and dedication to the team, stating, “He sees the team as the priority, and he goes and does all the work that nobody notices on TV, breaking his butt and fighting in the front to protect his teammates. I admire him constantly. He is my best role model.”
For Goldstein, his recent successes come at a crucial time for the team, as numerous riders have been sidelined with injuries and illnesses. However, he remains optimistic and believes that with the team’s collective sacrifice and determination, they will overcome the challenges they currently face.
