Rojas to make Giro debut

By Antonio J. Salmerón

At just 21 years old, José Joaquin Rojas is riding only his second season as a professional but the young Spaniard has been granted a starting spot in Caisse d'Epargne's squad for the Giro d'Italia which kicks off Saturday with a team time trial. "It has been a great surprise for me," Rojas told Cyclingnews, "because I never could have wished to ride any great race so soon."

The decision was taken by Caisse d'Epargne director Eusebio Unzúe and Rojas himself, "after considering my current form which is very good following the Spring Classics, and having 10 days rest after I was injured during a traffic accident in March."

Rojas has already claimed stage one of the Vuelta a Murcia at the beginning of March, but realises the competition in Italy will be a cut above. "In the Giro it will be more difficult (to win a bunch sprint), because the world's best sprinters will be there on top form, although I will certainly take advantage of any opportunity," he added.