Fraser happy to be back behind the wheel

New U.S.-based team Realcyclist.com recently signed Ottawa native and former pro Gord Fraser as directeur sportif.

The team caused a stir by signing Spaniard Francisco Mancebo, who finished in the top 10 in the 2004 and 2005 Tours de France before being linked to the Operation Puerto doping scandal. Mancebo re-launched his career in the U.S., riding for Rock Racing before finding a new home at Realcyclist.com

Fraser, who lives in Tucson, Az., was DS for United Healthcare until parting ways with the squad at the end of 2010 — mainly because the team was expanding to race in Europe and the new program wasn’t a good fit for him.

He took the time to answer some questions for Canadian Cycling Magazine earlier this week.

Q. The Realcyclist.com team just wrapped up its first training camp in Georgia. What’s your first impression of the squad?

A. First impression is that the team has gelled very well off the bike. It’s a usual case where some riders have done their homework well and are riding well, while others are behind in their foundation for the new year. We have mostly the former and I’m excited to see what everyone is capable of this year

A. The obvious standout signing for the team is Francisco Mancebo. How did this come about?

He was already on board by the time I arrived. Obviously we are fortunate to have a rider of his quality and will give us responsibility in every stage race we enter.

Q. You’re back in the role of team director, something you’ve said you really enjoy. What events are you most looking forward to this season and why?

A. Directing is incredibly rewarding for me and in the morning of a race, I can’t wait to get behind the wheel to see what adventures will unfold. I have yet to direct a team at Philly, so I’m looking forward to that race. Beauce, Cascade and hopefully Utah and Quizno’s will be highlights surely.

Q. The team’s calendar isn’t yet posted on its website. What’s the first event in the program, and what races is the team targeting? Are any trips to Europe planned?

A. San Dimas/Redlands coming up late March will be the first ‘team races’. Utah and Colorado will remain our main objectives this year. No planned trips to Europe at this time. We may need to target UCI America’s Tour with the recent announcement of the UCI mandating race promoters to enforce certain rulings… [Race organizers are now required to invite the top three teams in the continental ranking, which guarantees the top teams access to the biggest races]

Q. Besides Mancebo, who should we be looking out for this season on the squad?

A. Grajales has a lot to prove. It’s been awhile since he’s had a consistent race schedule and team security. I’m looking to him to regain his stature as a GC threat. Our sprinters will be a surprise to many.