Giro leader Ivan Basso had some good news before the start of stage 19, as his wife Micaela gave birth to the couple's second child on Friday morning. "It's been a fantastic day for me and my family," said Basso. "I have to admit it's a very special feeling to be sitting in the middle of a big race wearing the leader's jersey and knowing that my wife has brought a child into the world. I'm very happy right now and I have a lot to be thankful for.
"Tomorrow will be tough, but of course I have a comfortable lead at the moment and a team of riders, who are all capable of accomplishing great things. Jens is an exceptional rider, and what he did today deserves the utmost respect."
