Neo-pro Canuti aims big

The only new cyclists on the CSF Group - Navigare team for 2008 are neo-pros, one of which is Federico Canuti, a climber who'd like to make his mark in a Grand Tour or Classic.

"I think I'm a good climber," said Canuti, "and my greatest dream would be to win the Giro d'Italia. But I have to admit that I'm also captivated by Milan-Sanremo. Winning there would be wonderful. However, I'm aware that initially it will be very hard, because when you switch from youth category to pro, it's a big change, beginning with race length."

"I'll be satisfied to just show myself in this first year... . I want to demonstrate I deserve the support I have with some good results."

"I've already started training, switching gym and bicycle," said the 22 year-old. "I usually train with other three pro riders of the area of Pesaro: Pierfelici, Giunti and Cardellini. This winter I haven't taken a proper holiday, because I really want to pay off the trust that Reverberi family is giving me."

Canuti credits his father for his support. "For sure it's thanks to my father Enzo. Without his support I would already given up with cycling. So, I want to dedicate this all to him." He also attributed thanks to his trainer Giuseppe Trinci and president of his former Bedogni Monsummanese team Giacomo Pasqui.