Velochimp: Astrochimp on Cycling

Looking at the overall standings, things are close at the top with Mikael Rasmussen only 38 seconds behind Lance. Even though Lance crushed his major competitors with the help of his Discovery team on stage 10, Ras and others are still not far off.

The next few stages provide a respite from the high climbs. Thursday’s stage is rolling and may provide a long break a chance. Vino or other contenders may try to take back more time. Although, Vino may no tbe allowed much leeway after today’s stage.

Friday’s stage is bascially flat, look for some sprinters to get back into the action. There may be some new faces up front with fatigue and crashes taking their toll. Stuart O’Grady or Thor Hushovd may be able to break through for the win now that Boonen is a rolling injury.

Watch for a move by Rasmussen this weekend to try and take the yellow jersey. He is extremely close, and a well timed move could allow him to break free. He kept pace with Lance and Dscovery and tried to drop everyone to win the stage, but did not have the right tactics, so he had to leave the victory for Lance and Alessandro. Ras may be willing to take the risk to get the lead or at least to disrupt the Discovery grip on climbs.

Another man to watch out for is Ivan Basso, he has been very quiet so far and has promised to make a move in the Pyrennes. Reports are that he is getting into better form, but time will soon be running out for last years number 3. He may have to work hard to maintain a podium spot if he does not make a gutsy move soon.