Sunday, 15 June 2008
Hey Cadel, check out who's behind you!
- Alejandro Valverde will be the favorite for the Tour de France. There will be few things to persuade us otherwise. Valverde's form was good without being off the charts. The perfect lead up to a three week stage race.
- Cadel Evans knows how to attack! The boy from Barwon Heads tried an attack during stage six. Sure he got brought back, but one of the chief concerns for Cadel is that he doesn't attack enough, that he's too reactionary. So he must be confident if he went off the front. This attacking style will go well at the Tour de France because if he is in yellow or chasing it, he must be able to ride away to gain time or time bonuses.
- Beware of the Doger!! Mick Rogers who rides for High Road was the virtual leader of the Tour last year when he crashed out. He has battled illness and is now flying o far under the radar he is invisible. But a 10th place this week must be keeping the directors at High Road fairy stoked. Rogers is a three time world time trial champion, climbs like a demon and is tough as nails.... a great list of traits for a beautiful July.
- The French have absolutely no hope of winning their national race for another decade. French cycling stocks are about zero when it comes to big tour riders. They host the race but that's about where it ends. And you don't think they don't know it too!
- George Hincapie will do something cool at the Tour. Lance's faithful lieutenant for all those seasons the big man is due for win on the world's biggest stage. Some good riding during the week sees his form getting better. C'mon Big Georgie!
- Team Milram are living up to our expectations. They are fast becoming the 'farm team' of the Pro Tour. They must be desperate for a win but where it comes from is anyone's guess.
Make sure you check in next week when we dissect the Tour de Suisse and then line up for the big one!
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