The 2011 season saw Davide Appollonio progress by the race to confirm his credentials as one of the fastest men in the peloton, picking up two victories along the way in only his second season in the pro ranks.

After a consistent start with podium spots at both the Tour of the Mediterranean and Vuelta a Andalucia, the endearingly-named ‘Appo Jet’ took flight in May at his home Grand Tour – the Giro d’Italia. Stage 12 and Ravenna was the scene of a tantalising near-miss for the sprinter, second only on the line to Mark Cavendish, a turning point for the young Italian who began to believe he could compete at the highest level.

That growing confidence was in evidence in the very next race as the rider claimed victory on stage three of the Tour of Luxembourg. A further win and a two-day stint in the leader’s jersey followed at the Tour du Poitou-Charentes, the clearest sign yet Appollonio was progressing in Team Sky colours.

He says: “When I came here my goal was to do better than last year, and I think I’ve done that. Every month I was on the front trying to go for victories and I’m happy about that. I was pleased to get the chances to show what I could do, and even when I wasn’t contesting the sprints, I’d like to think that I was able to contribute to the team in other ways.

“At first I found it difficult in terms of the language barrier, but I worked hard on my English and as the season went on I could understand a lot more and that meant I felt a bigger part of the team.

“My biggest goal was riding the Giro d’Italia. That’s a moment every Italian cyclist dreams about, and I am happy to have achieved that. Coming second on stage 12 is also the highlight of my career so far, and even though it wasn’t a victory, that fact I was able to push Mark Cavendish all the way to the line made my friends and family proud.

“I feel I’m a much better rider now than at this point last year - I’ve got another season as a professional under my belt and also the confidence a few stage wins brings.”