July 12, 2005: It's all about conservation
Index to all entries It was a fast race once we hit the climbs. I got myself a seat in the first bus...
It was a fast race once we hit the climbs. I got myself a seat in the first bus and tried to conserve as much as possible because it's another tough, maybe even tougher, day tomorrow.
The secret to riding in the gruppetto is to conserve on the climb and set a pace that most of the group can follow and then put the hammer down when required on the descents and flat. It's all about getting to the finish inside the time limit and having as much petrol left in the tank as you can at the finish.
Looks like we have a real bike race happening at the pointy end. Armstrong certainly showed his hand today and none of the touted challengers were able to match him. Valverde is an amazing athlete. He can win a huge stage like that and also win a big bunch sprint. There are not many like him.
Cadel was very good today and he has a shot at a high podium finish.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!