MADRID, 22 Dic. (EUROPA PRESS) –
Former cyclist Joaquim 'Purito' Rodríguez and mountain biker Óliver Avilés have confirmed their participation in the Vuelta a Ibiza MTB SCOTT by Shimano, which will be held at the end of March 2024, with the intention of fighting for victory in the event.
'Purito' Rodríguez, with more than 40 victories as a professional and participation in 14 Grand Tours – two stage wins in the Giro d'Italia, three in the Tour de France and nine in La Vuelta -, and Óliver Avilés, medal gold in the Mountain Cycling World Championship in 2005, they will be a couple in a new edition of the Vuelta a Ibiza MTB.
“The Vuelta a Ibiza MTB SCOTT by Shimano has become a mandatory event for me every year. It will be my fourth participation in 2024. It is one of the most entertaining races of the entire year, both for how well the organization puts it together “, as for the island, which is a spectacle. You have to be in this race, because it has that point of good vibes and enjoyment. Although mountain biking is not my specialty, I have almost the measure of the island,” he said. 'Purito' in statements provided by the organization.
“Doing it with Óliver, who is a partner in many battles, is very special. He controls the mountain bike more than I do, he gives me that point of security and knows how to carry me quite well during those three days of competition,” he comments about his partner . “Although it also serves as a bit of a “half” vacation for us. We enjoy the island, its gastronomy and everything it can offer us. It is a time when Ibiza is calmer and allows us to make the most of our stay,” he added. .
Oliver Avilés, gold medalist at the World Mountain Bike Championships in 2005, is the ideal companion for a climber of 'Purito's stature. “It's a couple that we love. They both have a lot of history with the Vuelta and we couldn't stop counting on them. When cyclists of this quality want to be with us, it's a real source of pride. Those registered have the opportunity to ride with true idols “said the director of the test, Juanjo Planells.
“The Vuelta a Ibiza MTB SCOTT by Shimano is a combination of competition with that most fun part of the sport. It is not only the best way to get to know the island of Ibiza, through places that many will never see, it is also a Vuelta to enjoy with friends and overcome your limits with your partner. On March 29, 30 and 31, it is your time to discover it,” the organization stated.