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Jan's Journal: On track

By Jan Ullrich - T-Mobile professional cycling team
Published: Jun. 20, 2005
Riding into form, Ullrich says he's primed for France
Riding into form, Ullrich says he's primed for France
Photo: AFP

Well, I’m happy.

My last – and most difficult – test before the Tour de France is now over.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to defend my yellow jersey at the Tour of Switzerland this year, but I have to admit it wasn’t a major goal for me, either. Finishing in third was more than satisfactory and I am pretty happy with my form… besides, the yellow jersey I want is the one you wear into Paris at the end of July. As far as that goes, I think I am well on my way to being ready for that challenge.

The Tour of Switzerland was a great test for me. While winning again there wasn’t in the cards, for me, I was remarkably impressed with the way Aitor Gonzalez took the title on the last day. He showed a lot of character winning the overall in the way he did. It was a great achievement and my compliments to him.

I do really feel for Michael Rogers, though. Losing the jersey practically on the last kilometer is heart-breaking. It has to be a bitter experience for him, but it’s not the last you’ll be hearing from Michael Rogers that’s for sure. He’s young, very talented and has a great future in this sport.

Altogether I am really very, very content with my week in Switzerland. The team worked beautifully together and I having nothing but good to say about these guys. I felt like they were right there when I needed them and ready to work like mad when the situation called for it. It all worked perfectly.

At this point, I am very happy with my own form and feel like I am further along than I was at this time last year. Still, I am not quite at 100 percent, but I also still have nearly two weeks before I have to be in France. It won't be two weeks wasted. I promise you that when I reach Fromentine for that first time trial on July 2, I will be ready.

Until then.