Rinero looking to move on

French rider Christophe Rinero (RAGT Semences) is getting a new lease of life, having signed with ProTour team Saunier Duval-Prodir, after having ridden for second and third division teams for the past four seasons. The 31 year-old reflected on his career so far, which had its highlight in the 1998 Tour de France.

"I've been riding pro for ten years now and my goodness, time has flown by," he said. "For me personally, 1998 was the best season in my career. That year I finished 4th on the Tour with the jersey for the best climber and went on to win the Avenir, still with the jersey for best climber and winning two stages into the bargain. The future was looking good. In 2000, I had a streak of bad luck when I tore a tendon. I was riding for Cofidis at the time. By 2001, I was out on my ear. I could not be counted upon. I was out of favour with the other sporting directors of the big French teams. Oktos held out its hand. I stayed for two seasons but I really got back into the saddle thanks to RAGT Semences in 2004.

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