Well, unless something wild happens Friday there should be a real gut check for Mr. Armstrong. Saturday. About 10 seconds ahead of Brad and a half minute of Frank. Wiggens hasn’t shown he can out climb Lance, but Frank could be trouble especially with his bro knowing he probably won’t catch Contador baring a total meltdown.
Crack a six pack of your fave malted beverage, this will be interesting.
I like the Schlecks, but I’m hoping both LA and AK can top them just for the novelty of a team sweep since nobody here has ever seen it done before (last time, if I read correctly, pre-dates TV, although I do recall it being close in '86 but for Hampsten’s 4th). Likely won’t see anything quite like it again anytime soon w/ Astana blowing up after this year (I suppose an outside chance if Levi and Kloden both end up on LA’s new team, and something dire befalls AC).
My belief (since before the tour started) is that Lance’s primary focus would be Ventoux. It’s his “one that got away.” I think (or would like to think) that he’s been riding somewhat conservatively the past week. Contador’s basically got the yellow locked and with his gap, strength, and the way he rides, he shouldn’t need much team support on Saturday. I’m guessing there will be no leash on Armstrong.
So I’m hoping, that he will go for it on Saturday and hold nothing back. It should be a great stage, and my guess is that he won’t be able to take it from the Schleck brothers. But I’m thinking that the lead group (at least for a while) on the Ventoux will be the Schlecks, Contador, and Lance.
I can’t wait for Saturday! Regardless of who wins, it should be a fantastic stage.
Don’t see it happening but it would be nice to see AC help Lance win the one that got away. Might go a long way towards regaining fan favour…just don’t think so…no gifts.