Martin Reimer to Live His Childhood Dream at 2010 Paris-Roubaix
Since he was just a ten year old kid Martin Reimer wanted nothing more than to race the Paris-Roubaix at least once in his lifetime. Just twelve years later, the German national champion's dream will finally come true on Sunday.
Since he was just a ten year old kid Martin Reimer wanted nothing more than to race the Paris-Roubaix at least once in his lifetime. Just twelve years later, the German national champion's dream will finally come true on Sunday. "I am so looking forward to it. Since I was a little kid I was watching the race every year on TV and now I will finally be there. I can't believe it," Reimer told Roadcycling.com after his first Ronde van Vlaanderen on Sunday. "It is my career goal number one to win Paris-Roubaix someday."
In his first Ronde van Vlaanderen the Cervelo TestTeam rider got a first taste of riding one of the biggest races in the world. "I was so nervous you wouldn't believe it. But now I've done it and I am very satisfied with my performance. I think this will help me for Roubaix, I won't be so nervous anymore," said Reimer. The 22-year-old had the task to lead his captain Thor Hushovd into the Kwaremont climb in a good position.
"Flanders showed me that I am on the same level with many of the big riders. At least until 200 km. For 260 km I need some more substance. But that will come, just give me some years." Reimer only made it into the Flanders roster after teammates Andreas Klier and Heinrich Haussler were both left out of the team roster injured. For Paris-Roubaix, however, he was always certain to start. "That race suits me much better. I think I can do well."
The spectators along the course will be another motivation boost for Reimer. As he raced the Ronde van Vlaanderen, he just couldn't believe his eyes as he saw the more than a million fans along the course. "That was just insane. There are so many people on just on climb as along the whole course in a German race. That was really pushing me."
Reimer has recently been suffering from a bit of trouble with his right shoulder, which he injured in a fall at Gent-Wevelgem. It was taped by the team physiotherapist and should be fine again when he enters the big stage at the Paris-Roubaix 2010 on Sunday.