GPCQM: Michael Woods aims for victory in Montreal

Canadian Michael Woods is still reeling from his stage win in the recent Tour de France, and believes he still has the form needed to make it to the podium on Sunday in Montreal.

The Israel-Premier Tech team’s color bearer will be able to count on three other teammates who have also won stages in the Tour de France: Hugo Holly, Simon Clarke and Daryl Impey. New Zealand runner Corbin could also surprise at the Quebec Games.

“It’s a dream to get a result in Canada, but for me, the goal is Montreal. The race is longer and with more elevation. I have confidence in myself. You have to be a champion and be mentally strong. Even if I don’t win, I want to “I’m doing something special for the fans.”

Although he now resides in Andorra, Woods arrived in Quebec a few days ago to visit relatives in the Ottawa area. He then spent some time in Rivière-du-Loup with the team visiting sponsor Premier Tech.

“It’s always great to run in front of family and friends. I myself traveled almost 200 kilometers in 2010 to watch the race in Montreal. Canada is home.”

French secret

For his part, Quebec champion Benoît Cosnefroy knows that it will be difficult to repeat his achievement in 2022. But rain may make things difficult. Since 2010, only two cyclists have won the event by attacking the red flames.

“Last year was very special. Wout Van Aert attacked one lap from the end on the line. It was very difficult. I felt the chance to get out at the end. That could also be the case this year even “If it wasn’t the usual scenario.”