Tom Danielson’s return to form in 2009 has given the Garmin Slipstream rider an important boost in confidence and now, fully motivated, he wants to ride the Tour de France for the first time in his career.
“I won't know my schedule until I speak with the directors in the next months, but I would love to do the Tour next year,” he told VeloNation yesterday. “Another event which looks awesome is the Tour of California. This is one of my favourite races of the year and 2010 looks even better with some high altitude climbing up to Big Bear.”
Danielson won the time trial stage in the Vuelta a Burgos and finished third overall in the race. He also rode strongly in the Vuelta a España until illness ruled him out of the Grand Tour. This time last year he was fighting to get his career back on track; now, he’s clearly found the key, and feels a lot more content and in control.
“The biggest difference is I am relaxed, confident and hungry to work hard,” he said, prompting hopes that 2010 will be a standout season for him. “Making that connection from hard work to performance has been important for me and I am hoping I can continue to build on that through the off season.”
Danielson missed the Tour this year but had an intensive end of season, riding races such as the Vuelta, the world championships and the Giro di Lombardia.
Along with many other North American riders, he normally spends the majority of the season in Girona. However, since season end, he’s been enjoying time back home and remained active prior to getting back into structured training.
“After Lombardia, it was the start of the off-season for me,” he stated. “I came back to Colorado and have been enjoying time at home at home with Steph [his wife]. The Fall in Colorado is amazing and one of the best times to be here. With the exception of a few freak snowstorms, it has been quite warm. One of my favourite off season activities is mountain biking, so I have been spending a lot of time out on the trails.”