Linus Gerdmann Wins Stage 7 to Begin Alps
German rider Linus Gerdmann showed impressive strength in his stage 7 win over the Col de la Colombiere today. His win was big enough to take over the yellow jersey as the new race leader. In fact, his ride was so impressive, that Gerdmann took the yellow jersey, the white jersey (best young rider under 25), and the most aggressive rider awards. It was truly amazing. He was able to hold off some of the best climbers in the world. He was obviously overcome by emotions, when he broke down into tears of joy while on the podium.
The first day in the Alps actually went pretty close to plan. None of the major contenders was dropped on the climb, and none attempted to take off from the main pack. There is a tough day tomorrow, and none of the leaders wants to be out of shape for that one. Levi Leipheimer looked good today, and in an interview after the ride he said, “Tomorrow is a tough day.” Indeed everyone is looking forward to tomorrow as the time when riders will show what they have in their tanks. There are always question as to who is peaking at the right time, and tomorrow will answer that question.
The two injured Astana riders, Andreas Kloeden and Alexander Vinokourov, finished with the pack of race favorites. If they were in pain, they didn’t show it today. Every day that goes by should get easier for Vino, as his cuts and bruises will be healing. Kloeden is a different story. He will not get any relief from his pain until well after the Tour is over. His tailbone will take several weeks to heal.
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