What An Exciting Stage 5

By Ashton | Permalink | No Comments | July 12th, 2007 | Trackback

I was stuck in court Wednesday afternoon and work kept me from paying much attention to Thursday’s Stage 5, but I just finished watching my recording and all I can say is “Wow!” So far our buddy Sarge has been right on target and this has been just about the most exciting Tour I can remember ever having watched.

Today’s biggest story probably was Vinokorouv’s spill. He exhausted all his team except for Klodeen and Kashechkin. Even with some help from Boonen and pulling as hard as he could to make it back to the Pelaton Vino lost well over a minuted to the other GC contenders. Tomorrow’s stage does not look to be as demanding as today’s or Saturday’s, so it will be interesting to see what tactics the other teams employ. If they smell blood in the water, tomorrow could be very exciting too. I for one hope Vino and Astana recover.

Story number two, which barely got edged out by Vino’s difficulties, has to be Cancellera’s staying in the Yellow Jersey for a sixth day. It has been wonderful to watch him defend the Yellow Jersey. He has lead the chases, attacked the sprinters, and today he chased Popovych down a very technical descent. Bravo, Senor Cancellera!

Chavanel’s aggressive riding has put him in the Polka Dot Jersey for at least two days. It will be exciting to see whether he can maintain the Jersey once they enter the big mountain stages.

Zabel now has edged out Boonen and McEwen for the Green Jersey. What a battle that is promising to be!

Gustev remains in the White Jersey, but his turn to provide real help is about to arrive so I do not really expect him to keep it for much longer. Vino’s spill also cost Astana dearly in the Team Classification. Discovery is three seconds behind CSC - for now.

I can hardly wait for Friday’s stage. This race grows more fun each day. The one thing I do not look forward to tomorrow is reading the list of those who will be forced to abandon after this week’s carnage.

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