Omega Pharma - Quick-Step Cycling Team has announced the selection that will participate in Tour of Denmark, a 832.3km stage race from July 31st until August 4th.
"I think at Tour of Denmark we always have to pay attention to the crosswinds," Sport Director Brian Holm said. "You never know what's going to happen with the crosswinds at Denmark so you need to be awake. Normally, the big battle will be Friday. It's the 200km from Sonderborg to Vejle — the longest stage by about 20 kilometers. Then Saturday there is the 12.3km time trial after a 100km road stage. I think Frantisek Rabon and Martin Velits have a fair chance to do a good job in the GC. I spoke to them about how they are going to have their chance. But we have to pay attention to the steep little climb on Friday's stage. Normally there's about 10 riders at the finish if the race doesn't spread out due to the crosswinds. Normally riders like Martin and Frantisek can do well and then hopefully also do well in the time trial on Saturday."
"However, we have riders for the individual stage wins as well," Holm continued. "Andy Fenn and Mark Cavendish should have a chance to win a stage, as Denmark always ends up in a few bunch sprints. As for our competitors, Saxo-Tinkoff is always very motivated. They're very strong and always creating a good race by pulling in the crosswinds. They're normally the team to beat. But we will do our best with a strong team for good results."
Tom Boonen will not be at the start — as previously announced — due to a saddle sore. He will make his return at Eneco Tour, which starts on the 12th of August. Boonen will be replaced by Julien Vermote.