Roulston focused on improving health in build up to Tour de France

Hayden Roulston is focused on his health and building up to the Tour de France as he has struggled to fight off illness since his top 10 finish in last month’s gruelling Paris-Roubaix in northern France.

Roulston was sick heading into one of the world’s most prestigious one day classic bike races where only 74 riders out of 200 riders finished, but was determined to compete in the event where he was 10th.

“I’ve been really sick since Paris-Roubaix with on and off flu type symptoms and have really struggled with my health,” he said.

“Heading into Roubaix I didn’t want to even acknowledge to myself how sick I felt, and looking back maybe I shouldn’t have raced but I really wanted too and I’m thankful I did as I had a good race, but know I could have had an even better result if I hadn’t been so sick; it really took it out of me.”

The double Olympic medallist took a week off after the event then started training again but says he never fully shook off the illness and over the last two weeks has been lying low and “spending lots of time on the couch.”

“It’s been a huge shame as I missed the Tour of Romandie last week and also I’ve missed out on really enjoying my time with my family.”

Roulston is now fully focused on resting and fully recovering so he can start his build up to the Tour de France in July.

“I’ve still got time to be at my best and make the tour team for July. I’m confident I will do this and that’s what’s driving me now, to get healthy, strong again, and come back fighting.”

Roulston was supposed to be heading to the United States for the Amgen Tour of California next week before the focus turns to the major tour events in Europe.

“The team still wants me to go but I have to get well and have missed some training so will see how this week goes.”

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