Among the various functions that the inaugural stage of the Nations Cup in Glasgow had, in addition to making the riders eligible (and therefore our various Ganna, Viviani and the other big names) for the next World Cup also had that of continue on the path of experiences for those who must integrate the group, to be replacements for the Olympic quartet in the pursuit. And something more…
Manlius Moro it's one of these. Protagonist of the last World Championships in Roubaix with an exceptional performance in the individual pursuit, coach Marco Villa sees his great potential and continues to work on his permanent inclusion in the "dream poker" squad. In Glasgow Moro "tasted" the group, participating in the individual tournament but also sharing training sessions with the groupIt was a wonderful experience, and for me it had a special meaning: last year I was supposed to be called up for the first time, but I fractured my wrist and that opportunity fell through. That makes the trip to Scotland even more wonderful, like a score settled with fate.
There's been a lot of discussion, aside from the contradictory progress of the team pursuit tournament, about how important but also difficult it is to break into the Italian group, in such a consolidated system. As someone involved, what can you tell us?
In Glasgow I wasn't able to compete with my teammates, but we worked a lot together in training. The group is very close-knit and joining it from that point of view is easy., but clearly it's not something that can be invented overnight, it requires a lot of sharing on the track, sessions to be experienced together, making all the steps automatic. Luckily the older guys are availableThey give advice. The real problem? Going as fast as they do...
Villa considers you one of the key players to give new life to the group in anticipation of Paris 2024Are you thinking about the Olympics?
Of course not? They're one of my goals, but I know I have to earn them, and it won't be easy because so many of us are working towards them and aiming for them. For me, the chance is focused on the quartet; there are no other options.
As an individual pursuiter, your value is well established, but it's not an Olympic specialty. How do you fare in other endurance events?
Not good, not good enough to aspire to an important role. I'm not suited to group races, which on the track are very different from those on the roadYou have to be good at it, and I'm better at time trials.
You mentioned the road, let's open this chapter: how do your skills translate to the track?
I think I'm a complete cyclist, the classic rouleur who also handles certain types of climbs well, those not for sprinters and not too long. You have to consider that I'm a rider who weighs more than 80 kilos, against someone who weighs 60 I will never have any hope on long climbs.Clearly, to get back to the question, I really like time trials, which I feel comfortable in. In fact, the Italian specialty championships are a goal I've already focused on.
How do you feel about it? Ointment?
Great, it's a big family, where they don't let anything go. It's truly a top-notch team. only the status says it's not professional because the support is really of that level.
However, there are rumours circulating that you haven't been given permission to go to the second cup test in Milton...
I'm happy to be able to clear away any doubts. The decision not to go to Canada was taken by mutual agreement between Villa, myself and the top management of Zalf, so much so that both I and the company have given their availability for the third stage in Cali in Colombia.It's always best to strike a balance between road and track activities, not only to fulfill team obligations but also to get the best out of both disciplines.
So there's no underlying opposition to your track activity?
Why should there be? Each one helps the other and at Zalf they know it.This is why they support my commitment to the track and my constant trips to Montichiari for training sessions.
What are your upcoming commitments?
On the track, my strong point is the European Championships, as well as Cali where I think I'll also be used in the quartet. On the road in theory I should run theAdriatica Ionica Race and then the program will have to be developedI'd like to do the Under 23 Giro, but it's all in flux. I'll be ready no matter what.
