Only one day before Amgen, I’m still playing around with the rosters that I need to submit before midnight tonight. The guys did a pretty good job at the Etoile de Bessege, but over the past few days, I’m thinking I should mix up the roster a little. Originally I had planned to let the same 8 guys ride here in California, but I’m having second thoughts now. With the added pressure from Adam and the Board it’s been hard for me to make up my mind. Mike and Scott will both ride, after that I really have to look closely at conditioning. I wanted to put someone in for overall GC and for the TT’s but this team really isn’t built for that and my main goal here are the mountains. So who else should be on the roster? Pouring over Taylor’s reports I decided on the following:
Amgen Tour of California Riders
Moos, Pliuschin, Zdenek, Scott and Mike have all shown what they can so far this month so I kept them racing here in California. Now conditioning-wise Pliuschin and Zdenek aren’t there yet but I think that can make some waves sometime this week. We’ll be seeing David, Scott M and Ken for the first time this season. Mostly for their hard work in training rides; conditioning will be a factor for all of them, but hopefully we can make some strides in the mountains.
“So what do you think?” I had placed the Amgen roster in front of Tristan, Taylor and Frankie.
“I know at least 6 guys are going to be disappointed not being on that list Alex.” Frankie had a better feel for the guys recently than I did.
“Yeah I know, too bad we can’t field a whole other team.”
“What about the conditioning for Pliuschin and Zdenek or how Moos is feeling after that awful crash? Frankie’s voice is rising as he’s speaking.
“Frankie, these are the guys I’ve chosen and I feel like we have the best chance capturing the mountain jersey for at least one day. Remember that is our goal for this race; nothing more nothing less.”
“But coach – I really don’t think these are the right guys….” Frankie doesn’t give up.
“Listen, I’ve spent hours, actually weeks going over Taylor’s reports if he’s right then we’ll succeed in our goal. I don’t want to hear anything more about our team makeup until Amgen is over – then we’ll discuss if I chose wisely.” Maybe I was being harsh again, but why wasn’t I listening to their thoughts? If I didn’t what comments why did I even present to the staff the roster asking for input? Maybe Scott was right about me wanting approval – will that be my downfall? “Ok guys you know your assignments and our goal – let’s get to work, tomorrow is a big day.”
The only other news to report is that early last week I requested a team slot for Trofea Laigueglia a 1.1 single day affair with some hills. It will be good experience for the guys who haven’t ridden yet this year.
[IMG-l]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/overviewamgen.jpg[/IMG-l]“Well are we ready?” It’s Tristan walking up to me as I approached our team trailer area. “The guys are all warming up on the trainers and are ready to go. I set-up the TT bikes for a slight uphill, so they should be able to handle the final approach to the finish.”
“Great – tell the guys not to spent too much energy today – tomorrow is our goal. How are Pliuschin and George this morning? They’ll most likely be out top GC riders this week, but we’ll see how it goes.”
“They need more racing time before they can contend with the big guys here – hopefully we won’t get destroyed too badly.”
“I hope you right – we just need to keep the guys together and focused on our Board goal, we need the TV time to lock support for what we are doing. The 10th place GC finish; and Moos’ 2nd place stage finish were good for the team but won’t hold off the suits for very long. California is very important to them.”
“I hope you’re right on this one Boss – or it could be a long season.”
“I do too Tristan, I do too.”
5k ITT slight uphill finish.
“Frankie! Where are you?” I didn’t see Frankie with the guys at the trainers nor at the back of the truck. “Where the hell did he go? Moos have you seen Frankie? We’ve got a race to run, how come he isn’t here?”
“Coach I think I saw him on his phone walking in the direction of the starting house.” George spoke up. “I’m not sure who he was talking to but it sounded intense before he walked away.”
Team Rolls for Prologue
“I’ll talk with Frankie after the race, ok guys today is just the 5k time trial. Don’t press too hard today because I want you fresh for tomorrow. George and Pliuschin should be leading for GC even though you’re both out of form right now. Depending on what happens today – we’ll send someone out on the break tomorrow to capture that mountain jersey. I have to go check the starting order so I’ll be right back. Are there any questions before I leave? Tristan if Frankie doesn’t show in the next 5 minutes come ride with me in the car. Let him know I’m pissed that he left the staging area.”
[IMG-l]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/StybarFinishcurrently2nd.jpg[/IMG-l]““You know one of these days I’d love our team to have someone as a favorite. Hopefully on day soon that will happen.” I’m talking to my wife before the start. She’s brought the kids to watch the team race.
“Don’t worry about favorites, you have prepped the guys as best as you can for this race, and nothing is going to be decided today.” My wife always the voice of reason what would I do without her?
Zdenek is our first rider out of the gate you ready to go?” It was Frankie over the com.
“Yeah I’ll be right there.” I decided to use my voice of reason and not chew out Frankie right now. We have a Prologue to run.
“So Zdenek, how are you feeling today?” My voice crackled over the radio.
“Pretty good Coach, you realize we are the only team here not using a rear racing disk? Do you think that’s ok?” As usual Stybar is worried about other things.
“Stybar just race, Taylor and I will worry about the bike set-ups. I’m worried about the hill before the finish – it’s a strength sapper and I want you to have a bike that can react going up-slope the set-up you have will help you.”
“Ok you’re the Boss”
Zdenek crosses 4” down in second, but it’s still really early.
“Well not too bad for Zdenek, he’ll most likely finish in the top 1000 with that result. Maybe we were wrong on that back wheel.” I was nervous, and it was showing in my voice.
“Don’t worry Alex, maybe Stybar was just off today. Here goes George; it will be good to see him ride.” Frankie was also nervous.
“David how are you doing today?” I barked into the com.
“Not too bad – a little jittery since this is my first race this season, and I always hate these starting gates, and the ramps. I know it’s not logical since I’ve been doing this for a while, but that little ramp just freaks me out. We’ll they’re waving me to get in the start gate – I’ll see you on the other side.
“Come on David get moving!” The finish line was getting closer but David was faltering, and he has a chance to be in 1st!
“He’s really fading badly” Frankie was stating the obvious. “Still a 3rd place finish at this point isn’t too bad. Where do you think that will put him?”
“I’m guessing somewhere around 50th. He’s only 8” up on Stybar, not a bad run for his first of the year.” Still somewhere inside me wanted more out of David, and I was disappointed with his results.
After that, the day went downhill, Pliuschin, Moos and Nydam all logged slower times that George, and as a team we were out of it.
By mid-race our top rider (David) was sitting 16th with all the favorites still to come.
“Guys remember tomorrow is our day – yeah a good showing here would have been nice, but all isn’t lost. Keep you heads up and look at the big picture. We’re riding against the best in the world right now and we’re holding our own. Now let’s get out there and show some support for the rest of our guys.” Still my little pep talk wasn’t working today. Times continued to get better thought out the day, and our GC placing continued to fall.
“Coach I’m really not feeling too well.” Mike was out on the course. “The bike seems to be really loose and heavy to me. Maybe my legs are shot.
Though I don’t know how since we haven’t done a lot of heavy pounding over the last week.”
Don’t worry about it Mike, remember put together a good ride today, and we’ll be set-up for tomorrow.”
Pliuschin at the gate – he’d finish 46th losing 13”
Moos in his tuck – in at 77th
Sayers at the finish – 16” off the pace
Nydam out of the gate – finishing 56th
Hansen’s start to the season netted him a 64th place
[IMG-l]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/Moningerat49th.jpg[/IMG-l] Moninger looking good at 52nd place
“Well guys, there is always another day. I think I made the mistake of not putting the TT disk on your back wheel. I admit to the error, and I’ll make sure it doesn’t happen again. But that’s water under the bridge now, we need to get ready for tomorrow and let’s see if we can get the Board’s goal accomplished. Go get your rubdowns and we’ll gather after dinner for a driver over tomorrow’s course. Meet back here at 8:00 pm.” Maybe I shouldn’t have admitted to the equipment error, but I wanted to get the guys angry for tomorrow, maybe the anger would be misplaced and directed at myself, but hopefully I can harness that tomorrow. Now I had to deal with Frankie. “Frankie come take a walk with me.” Once out of earshot from the van, I let Frankie have it. “What the hell were you doing away from the staging area? You know the rules and what I require out of you. What was so important that you had to take a personal call right then?” I could feel my veins popping out of my neck. “Nothing is more important at race time then getting the guys ready to race – I don’t talk to my wife, nor do I bring my kinds into the staging area. I expect the same. Don’t let it happen again do you understand?”
“Yeah Coach, it won’t happen again.” Frankie seemed distracted and didn’t show any facial expressing as I chewed him out.
Stage 1 – Prologue Results
Rank Name Team Time
1 Laszló Bodrogi CRÉDIT AGRICOLE 5'31
2 Stefan Schumacher GEROLSTEINER s.t.
3 Bert Grabsch T-MOBILE TEAM + 2
4 Levi Leipheimer DISCOVERY CHANNEL + 4
5 Danny Pate TEAM SLIPSTREAM + 5
6 Magnus Bäckstedt LIQUIGAS s.t.
7 Jens Voigt TEAM CSC s.t.
8 Torsten Hiekmann GEROLSTEINER s.t.
9 Marco Pinotti T-MOBILE TEAM + 6
10 Svein Tuft SYMMETRICS CYCLING TEAM s.t.
33 Filippo Pozzato LIQUIGAS + 11 34 David George BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
44 Fabian Wegmann GEROLSTEINER + 13 46 Aleksandr Pliuschin BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
50 Burke Swindlehurst TOYOTA - UNITED PRO CT + 14 52 Scott Moninger BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
54 Russell Downing HEALTH NET PRESENTED BY MAXXIS + 15 56 Scott Nydam BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
60 Cameron Evans SYMMETRICS CYCLING TEAM + 16 64 Ken Hanson BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 65 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
68 Kyle Wamsley NAVIGATORS INSURANCE + 17
76 John Murphy HEALTH NET PRESENTED BY MAXXIS + 18 77 Alexandre Moos BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
87 Ian MacGregor TEAM SLIPSTREAM + 20 88 Zdenek Stybar BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 120 Johan Vansummeren PREDICTOR - LOTTO + 1'00
[IMG-l]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/overviewamgen.jpg[/IMG-l]Feb 19th, 2007 – Amgen Tour of California (Stage 2 of 8)
Stage 2 Goals:
1. Gain the Mountain Jersey
2. Finish top 20.
3. Move David George up in the overall GC
Race Profile
Stage 2 Plan: “Ok we have only one real goal today – we’re going to get someone into the early break and go after the mountain jersey. If the break gets caught, we’ll need someone else ready to go. We’ll will use up all energy to get that jersey today including sacrificing a GC position to do so.” I’m once again giving my pre-race speech to the guys as they warm-up on the trainers. “I can’t express how important today is to the success of the team for the next few years. We’re here against the big guns so show me that we belong here. Does anyone have and questions?” I’m very nervous inside, and my stomach is turning in knots. I’m finding it difficult to be the Coach in times like this – I want to be out riding and going after the banner points myself.
“Coach, so who’s going to get the call for the first break?” Scott seemed to be chomping at the bit.
“Well I have a couple ideas but I’ll decide when we’re out on the course. Moos and Pliuschin will most likely get the first crack – but that can all change if they are being closely watched. My guess is that they won’t since we’re really not on anybodies radar. It about time to go – Frankie and I will be in the support car – Tristan will be in our service area on the com if you need anything. Tristan did you check everyone’s com link?”
“Yeah – we won’t have the same problem again.”
“Good, and good luck to everyone. Remember the importance of today’s stage.”
Riders Roles
Stage 2 Bike Set-up: As I walked away from the staging areas I had Frankie follow me to the car. “So how did you and Tristan set-up the bikes today?”
“We did a mix set-up so they would have a little jump when the road started to rise.” Frankie seemed kind of nervous.
“Good – now let’s see how the guys are going to respond. Here we go – and Flecha is already moving! Moos, Pliuschin take his wheel lets see that the peleton does.”
“Coach!” Pliuschin’s breath was coming hard. “We’re not getting any separation Discovery is at the front driving hard. There’s someone in our 10 man group they don’t want to get away. We better get someone ready for the next break attempt it’s only a matter of time before were back into the fold.”
”Scott can you hear me?” I ask into the com.
“Right here Coach.”
“Go ahead and move to the front – look for the next break attempt. We’re going to go with it.”
“Ahhh Discovery was watching us!” Frankie was aghast. “Look Moos and Pliuschin are back in the pack and they’ve dropped off the head of the Peleton!”
[IMG-l]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/discoveryearlyon.jpg[/IMG-l] Discovery reeling BMC back in!
“I can’t believe that! What the hell are they thinking? We’re not a threat to the overall GC! Scott, are you at the front yet? The leaders are getting another gap – can you attack?”
“I think I can, give me another few seconds to get through to the front. I’m almost there.”
“Hurry otherwise the gap will be too big to bridge!” I’m yelling into the com now.
“Calm down Alex, we’ll most likely still have a chance even if this break gets away.” Frankie is trying, but he’s only causing my blood to boil. Damm Discovery I would have placed two riders in the early morning break! “Alex – Scott’s now has a heavy headwind, we just turned into it. Do you still want him to go for it? Race radio just announced a 1’22” on the pack and growing.”
Somehow Frankie has made me see reason; “Scott stand down, we’ll pray that we catch them before the mountain banner.”
“Got it Coach – let me know what’s going on.” Scott seems pretty level headed right now. Good thing because I’m going to need him later on today.
“Wegmann is going! I’m going to follow him!” It’s Mike, the Peleton has reached a little rise 140k from the finish.
“Mike wait!” I bark into the com. It’s too late though from the backside of the peleton I can see Mike get up and follow the Gerolsteiner rider. “Frankie keep an eye on the GPS and radio transmitters of our guys in the pack. Let me know if there is a speed increase.”
[IMG-l]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/breakoutofsight.jpg[/IMG-l] The break is out of sight 1”33 up
“Coach, Moos here no one wants the front – we’re bunching up now. Mike looked good going up the road.”
“Keep where you are Moos – let’s see what transpires.”
“Alex, Race Radio just announced the BMS and Gerolsteiner crossed the gap! The break has almost 2’ on the Peleton and there hasn’t been any chase put up. Mike is a monster with that move!” Tristan’s voice came over our com.
“Still he didn’t listen to my directions. Hopefully he’s strong today and this works or we going to have to fine him. Hear that Mike? I know you’re listening.”
“Coach I know, sorry but I knew going in that Wegmann was going to go, and I’m feeling good right now. In the future I’ll let you know earlier so we can make a decision.” Mike’s breath was coming easy over the radio.
Mike joins the break – 135k to the finish
“Just keep me posted, got it?” Maybe I was being too strict, but Mike has to understand that this is a team, and I make the decisions not him.
“Race radio just announced 5’ gap to the break and the first sprint went uncontested. Break is an 11 man group working together very nicely.” Frankie informs me in a monotone voice.
“Good, it looks as if this might just work. Mike, how are you feeling?” I ask into the com.
“Ok guys – Mike has a 3’ lead on the Peleton with only 16km from the mountain banner – the lead group of 11 is getting kind of ragged, and the time gap is closing down. Watch out for any breaks, Credit and CSC have been driving pretty hard over the last 50km does anyone have anything left in the tank for a mountain attack if someone goes off the front?” I’m almost pleading into the com.
[IMG-r]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/PhotoOpSayersfollowingFlecha.jpg[/IMG-r] Photo Op – Mike tucked behind Flecha
Almost instantly George speaks up. “I’m feeling really good right now, but that might change with a rise in the pavement. I’m going to move to the front and keep watch. I’ll let you know of any action.”
“Great – guys give George any support he might need.” I’m out for now and good luck on the climb.
“Strike out what I said earlier Coach.” Its George again – the road decided to pick up steep and my legs aren’t there. From what I can tell Moos, Pliuschin, are all toasted too. How’s Mike doing?”
“I’m feeling pretty good, the official just came by and we have 2’32” on the Peleton with 4.1km to the top. I’m going to attack soon. Is that ok Coach?”
“When you get to the front of the pace line, just keep going and see if anyone can stay with you.” My voice is strained with anxiety. I just wish Frankie could get the car up to him, but the officials were keeping everyone out.
“Got it Coach – just a hard sustained pace then and not an all out attack?”
“Yeah, I want to see who has the strength to follow first.”
“Ok here we go…..3km to the top and Baguet from Quickstep is leading out at a high pace. I’m 3rd in line behind Piil (T-Mobile) what do you want to do? Guys are coming off the back of our group.” Panic is starting to rise in Mike’s voice, but a good sign was that his breathing was still coming easy over the com.
“Hold tight a little longer, you sound good but don’t panic. Watch for a move from Piil, if he doesn’t go then we’ll make a move at the 2km mark.
“Wait! Baguet cracked! With 2.5km to go! I’m still holding tight.” Mike’s breathing is coming a little harder now. Flecha and Wegmann are behind me sitting on my wheel it’s going to be tight! Oh no Predictor is here too with Vansummeren.”
“Keep steady Mike. Make an all out attack at the 1km mark.”
“Got it!”
“Go!GO!” I’m screaming into the com now. Mike has the lead with .8km to the summit. He’s looking really good and no one can follow! “You’re going to get it! Keep going!”
“Wow I’m glad that’s over.” Mikes breathing is labored and heavy. “But we got the jersey! I’m just going to coast home now. How’s everyone else doing?”
Mike winning the KOM Jersey!
“Not very good.” I find myself saying more to myself.
“My God, the field is completely torn apart. We’ve got 25km to go and we’re spread out everywhere. Pliuschin is spent and the rest of our guys look as if they’re just barely hanging on.” Frankie seems worried. “The officials are asking for us to move out, we’ll have to watch the finish.”
“There goes George and Scott they are off the back with 15km to go…” It’s like watching a slow death. “Mike still has a 1’30” lead on the Peleton, or what’s left of it.”
“Yeah, but that won’t last long. Discovery is driving the train now.” Tristan’s voice crackled over the com.
“Now Moos is unhitched with 10k to go.” It’s almost too painful to watch.
“Look Mike might make it!” Frankie had just got the official time gap. “2.4km to go and the three leaders still have a 1’ on the chase group!” Frankie’s voice is getting louder.
“I don’t know Frankie, I’m sure Mike is toasted. How are you doing Mike?”
“Ah no time to answer, I’m trying to win this thing.” Mike’s breathing is really shallow and fast. “I’m not that strong right now and…… where did Baguet come from?!?!”
“Mike just take his wheel and ride it in – you still have a major gap to the Peleton and should finish in the top ten for GC.”
“I’m going for it!” Damm I have to give him some credit, but all he’s doing is burning out his legs for tomorrow.
Mike leading with 2.2km to go. No Peleton in sight
Mike finishing 2nd behind Baguet from Quickstep
Vansummeren is over Baguet’s shoulder.
“What’s the gap?” I’m calling into the com to Tristan. “WHAT’S THE GAP!!!” Crackling is coming from the com.
“HE DID IT!!!!!” Tristan is yelling. “We’re leading the Tour! O’Grady couldn’t close the gap!” My ears are ringing and I can’t believe what I just heard. Mike just had the ride of his life!
“Can you believe it?” Frankie is honking the car’s horn as we desperately try to get to the finish area.
“How did those two hang on like that?” I still can’t believe it.
Stage 2 Results
Rank Name Team Time
1 Serge Baguet QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC 3h57'46 2 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
3 Johan Vansummeren PREDICTOR - LOTTO s.t.
4 Stuart O'Grady TEAM CSC + 51
5 Óscar Freire RABOBANK s.t.
6 Luca Paolini LIQUIGAS s.t.
7 Fred Rodriguez PREDICTOR - LOTTO s.t.
8 Paolo Bettini QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC s.t.
9 Filippo Pozzato LIQUIGAS s.t.
10 Theo Eltink RABOBANK s.t. 14 Ken Hanson BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 18 Zdenek Stybar BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 67 Scott Moninger BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
89 Michael Lange TEAM SLIPSTREAM + 3'06 97 David George BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 104 Scott Nydam BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 106 Alexandre Moos BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
117 Jimmy Engoulvent CRÉDIT AGRICOLE + 8'18 118 Aleksandr Pliuschin BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 120 Will Routley SYMMETRICS CYCLING TEAM + 19'06
Overall GC
Rank Name Team Time 1 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM 4h03'21
2 Serge Baguet QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC + 23
3 Stefan Schumacher GEROLSTEINER + 47
4 Laszló Bodrogi CRÉDIT AGRICOLE s.t.
5 Johan Vansummeren PREDICTOR - LOTTO + 48
6 Bert Grabsch T-MOBILE TEAM + 49
7 Levi Leipheimer DISCOVERY CHANNEL + 51
8 Danny Pate TEAM SLIPSTREAM + 52
9 Jens Voigt TEAM CSC s.t.
10 Magnus Bäckstedt LIQUIGAS s.t.
45 Burke Swindlehurst TOYOTA - UNITED PRO CT + 1'01 46 Scott Moninger BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
53 Paolo Bettini QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC + 1'03 54 Ken Hanson BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 69 Zdenek Stybar BMC CYCLING TEAM + 1'07 92 David George BMC CYCLING TEAM + 3'13 95 Scott Nydam BMC CYCLING TEAM + 3'17
99 John Murphy HEALTH NET PRESENTED BY MAXXIS + 3'20 102 Alexandre Moos BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 118 Aleksandr Pliuschin BMC CYCLING TEAM + 8'27 120 Will Routley SYMMETRICS CYCLING TEAM + 19'20
Sprint Points
Rank Name Team Points General
1 Serge Baguet QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC 31 31
2 Stefan Schumacher GEROLSTEINER 5 25
3 Laszló Bodrogi CRÉDIT AGRICOLE 0 25 4 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM 20 20
5 Enrico Gasparotto LIQUIGAS 16 16
6 Bert Grabsch T-MOBILE TEAM 0 16
7 Johan Vansummeren PREDICTOR - LOTTO 16 16
8 Levi Leipheimer DISCOVERY CHANNEL 0 14
9 Stuart O'Grady TEAM CSC 14 14
10 Danny Pate TEAM SLIPSTREAM 0 12 30 Ken Hanson BMC CYCLING TEAM 2 2 31 Cadel Evans PREDICTOR - LOTTO 0 1
KOM
Rank Name Team Mountain General 1 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM 10 10
2 Johan Vansummeren PREDICTOR - LOTTO 8 8
3 Serge Baguet QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC 6 6
4 Fabian Wegmann GEROLSTEINER 4 4 5 Juan Antonio Flecha RABOBANK 2 2
Getting up to the podium, the whole team is just going crazy, Tristan is hugging Mike, Moos and Pliuschin are patting him on the back. Dave and the two Scotts are beaming while talking to the media. Frankie is hugging Zdenek and the sun is shining…..I picture perfect moment just like a cheesy moment at a movie ending, the Replacements with that “Matrix” guy came to mind right away. Or maybe Adam Sandler in the Waterboy.
“Nice planning.” My wife has worked her way through the crowd and whispered into my ear. Knocking me out of my inner monologue.
“Really it wasn’t my doing – I told him not to go.”
“Anyway, still it was a good race, and I’m happy for Mike.” She’s grinning at me as she leans in for a kiss.
“Thanks Honey, I’ll see you back at the hotel.”
[IMG-r]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/Objectivereached022007.png[/IMG-r]
On my way back to the hotel I received an e-mail from the board, notifying me that I had reached an objective set for me. It was a dry impersonal form letter, but I still had to save it. Hopefully I’ll be receiving more of these as the season wears on.
Feb 20th, 2007 – Amgen Tour of California (Stage 3 of 8)
Jerome Pineau from Bouygues Telecom won the Tour Mediterraneen. Now here’s an interesting rider, with an open contract for next season. I e-mailed Taylor to give him a call right away. I’m a little concerned that he might have ‘peaked’ already, but he would be a good support rider in the hills and as a leadout man.
Stage 3 Goals:
1. Hold and Protect the Leader’s jersey.
2. Hold and Protect the KOM jersey.
3. Reserve some energy for tomorrow’s stage.
Stage 3 Plan: “Tristan, Frankie so do you guys think that we could get David into the early morning break? I’m guessing that even though he’s 3’ down they’ll be keeping an eye on him.”
“I agree Boss, I don’t think he’ll be able to get away, he’s still a threat because other teams don’t know his conditioning status, and 3’ isn’t enough playing room for the GC contenders.” Frankie was nodding his head as Tristan spoke.
Could Jerome become a BMC rider?
“You guys are most likely right, I know if I was Discovery I wouldn’t let George go in a break, but we’re going to try anyway. George is about to drop out of sight in this Tour, and I’d really like to secure the KOM jersey for at least one more day. Also if the Peleton does give chase, we won’t have to set the pace to chase down the break. That will save us a little energy for tomorrow.”
“Sounds like a solid plan Coach, if George can’t get away with the early group who’ll be our next attempt?” Frankie was always nervous, and wanted to know my contingencies, still I really can’t blame him for wanting to know my whole plan.
“I’ll worry about that during the race, I have a few more ideas, but I have to see that happens during the race.”
Stage 3 Bike Set-up: “Alex we’re setting up the bikes as we discussed last night right? More of a mountain set up today for everyone?” Tristan was always about business.
“Yeah have Frankie help you review them, and then get the guys warmed up on the trainers it’s getting close to the starting gun. I have to have a quick conversation with Mike about not listening to strategy during the race. Also let’s change the frequency on the com radios, I’m getting the impression that someone is listening in on us. Call me paranoid, but so far this year other teams have jumped a little too quickly when we’re attacking. Yesterday’s mountain attack was the first time this season it didn’t happen, and I think it was because I was telling Mike to just set pace and not attack. When I changed my mind at 1km to the top I think it might have caught whoever was listening off-guard or that they didn’t have anyone in the lead group with us.”
“Coach that sounds a little weird……” Tristan began
“I said DO IT don’t question me on stuff like this, all I’m asking is a little more work for you guys.” The last portion of my sentence came from over my shoulder as I walked away from the two of them. Both looked as if I had socked them in the gut, mouths wide open with this glazed look in their eyes.
Stage 3 Profile
“So Mike, nice ride yesterday, how are you feeling today?” I was sitting down with Mike in the trailer for some quiet one-on-one time. He was clearly nervous after having the whole night to think about his actions from yesterday.
“I’m ok, are we going to protect my jersey today?”
“Mike, that jersey along with the KOM jersey is the Team’s NOT yours. I’ll put you in the position to wear it or I’ll make sure you will take it off. Do you understand that concept?”
“Yeah” Mike’s head lowers to look at the floor, shoulders slumping. He’s obviously dejected with himself. “I’ve let you and the team down, and if I hadn’t succeeded I would most likely not be riding today right?”
“I thought about that last night Mike. First I wanted to fine you and make you drop today, but I can’t do that. But on the same hand I can’t let you go unpunished for your actions. The rest of the team knows what happened, and they also know that we’re talking right now. So this is what I’m going to do.” I extend my hand toward Mike and clasp his in a firm handshake. His eyes snap back to my face, and a grin spreads across his face. “Now you know I’m going to have to fine you too right?”
“Yes Coach, thanks I’ll make sure it won’t happen again.”
Mike’s ‘little’ talk brought us closer together.
“You do that, but next time please let me know what’s in your head before we race. Do you have anything swirling in there right now?”
“Nope” His cheesy grin was still on his face.
“Ok go get warmed up, I’ll submit your fine after today’s stage. Oh, you need to apologize to Pliuschin, he’s our team leader for Amgen, and I think you took his thunder.”
“No problem Coach, I’ve going to go warm up now.”
“Good luck out there today – it’s a pleasure coaching you. I would have loved racing with you this year. Keep up the good work.”
Rider roles for Stage 3
“Damm we’re leading this race and still no one think we have a shot today.” Tristan seems pissed as we climb into the car.
“Don’t worry; I really don’t want to be on anyone’s radar right now. I’d rather sneak up on teams and ‘steal’ this thing. But remember overall GC isn’t our goal here otherwise we would have chosen different riders for better support. They’re off the starting line, George can you hear me?”
“Loud and clear, want me to take a pull off the front?”
“Yeah, just like we talked about, watch for the attack to come early. Someone is going to go after the KOM point 30km down the road, I want you to piggyback on their wheel and go for the ride.”
“Coach there goes Quinziato from Liquigas! I’m following!”
“Sit down George you don’t have the legs just yet and the peleton is giving chase, we’re going to plan ‘B’.” I’m dejected, I really wanted for George to have a good day but his conditioning just isn’t there yet. But the peleton doesn’t know that so they go after him. “Nydam go to the front – we’re going after the 5 in the break.”
“Wait Alex I just got word that the peleton is slowing down – George is in the second group 1’ up on the peleton. Tell Scott to roll into the pack.” Tristan is holding a hand to his ear to hear the officials better. “He’s got a Health Net rider with him and they are chasing 4 riders that have a 40” gap.”
“Scott you heard Tristan sit down and let’s watch what happens. Tristan are there any mountain leaders in the group?”
“According to race radio no – but I can’t verify that from here. Officials won’t let us bridge the gap until something happens with George. They need more space right now.”
George making the break – in no-man’s land will he bridge the gap?
“How are you feeling George I ask into the radio?”
“Not very good, I’m using up a ton of energy here. What are the official gaps right now? We’re gaining on the leaders but very slowly and I’m burning through my fuel. I think we can make the top and maybe the next climb but I’ll be spent.”
“Ok that’s good because there are a ton of points up for grabs – take this first climb if you can. You have almost 4’ on the peleton right now. I’ll be in touch.
“Good job catching these guys – do you have anything left? There’s left than 5km to the top.”
“I’ve think I’ve got it.” George’s breathing is ragged and coming with a lot of effort over the com.
George on the climb.
“Tristan what’s his heartbeat?”
“He’s hovering at 180bpm. And we’re at 10.5% grade right now.”
Damm he’s strong, his legs must feel like iron and lead right now. “Hold on George – relief is coming soon; just keep up the hard work.”
“Thanks Coach I’m really trying.” Again it’s hard to understand George his breathing is labored and raspy.
“Great job taking the mountain! You’re the new jersey holder. Did they try to contest it?”
“No Coach – no one even made an attempt. I think I have enough for the next climb if I recall its pretty close here. After that I’m just going to take it easy. I’m going to lose a huge amount of time on GC though.”
“Don’t worry about that; just keep that jersey and we’ll get you home before any time cutoff.” Turning to Tristan “I can’t believe this guy, he’s no where to being close to being in shape and he just rode over them.”
[IMG-l]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/Georgetake1stclimb.png[/IMG-l] George taking the KOM.
“Quinziato from Liquigas is going again!” It’s George over the com. “I don’t have anything left to give chase. In fact I’m barley hanging on. How far is it to the next KOM?”
“You’re up 4’30” with 14km to go. Let him go – do you have enough for 2nd?” I’m pleading into the com again.
“Yeah I think I’m stronger that these guys. I’ve been watching Cornu from Predictor and I think I’ve got more in the tank than him. Ollerenshaw from Health net is here too but he’s struggling also.”
“Ok just tag yourself on the back and ride them up the hillside. You’ll get some points, hopefully it will be enough. I’d hate to lose that jersey now.”
“Damm, I blew up going up the hill – I crossed 6th does that get me any points?” George sounds distraught.
“Sorry you just missed out. Just take it easy now. We’ll have to wait and see if you did enough to hold onto the jersey. It’s going to be close.”
“Sorry Boss.”
Frankie came over the radio; “Alex you know we’re going to have to lead the chase now right? We have 122km to the finish and the leaders are up over 5’.”
“Yeah I know thanks for keeping me posted. Let’s hold tight another 20k and see what happens. Maybe CSC and Discovery will help bring them in they don’t have anyone in the leading group.”
“9’ up with 100km to go.” Frankie’s voice came across the com again.
“Damm that was fast. George is back with the peleton now. It’s going to be a tough ride in for him. Hopefully he’ll be in the time allotment.” I can almost feel George’s pain he gave everything today for those few points.
“Scott take some pulls on the front, we need to close the gap a little. Who’s pulling right now?”
“It’s CSC, Discovery and Credit. I’ll get in line with them.” Scott sounds pretty good, maybe that’s a good sign.
“Peleton’s doing 45kph on the flat against a headwind – there pulling the gap closed on the leaders – and Rabobank is coming to the front also. If we all work together we should pull them back in.” Tristan’s voice seen a little anxious though.
“Coach?” It’s George. “I’m coming back to you guys – I’m toasted hopefully I can finish today. I still have 90km to go right?”
“Ouch, we see you - yeah you have 90km. Hang in there will see you at the finish. Don’t let the SAG truck pick you up.”
“I’ll try not to. That would be a little embarrassing; George out.”
[IMG-l]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/herecomesthechase.png[/IMG-l] They’re going to be caught.
“What do you think Tristan? It looks as if the guys up front are doing their jobs; I think we’re going to see a good sprint today.”
“Yeah – race radio just announced for support vehicles to move out of the gap. This is coming down to a sprint. There’s only 1’30” to the leaders with 40km to go.”
“Twenty km to go, everyone please move to the front.” Damm I sounded like the lady from the airport; the white zone is for loading and unloading of passengers only… “How does everyone feel?”
“Coach, Moos here and I’m feeling really good today “
“I’m feeling pretty good also” It was Zdenek on the line too.
“How about you Mike? Did yesterday take everything out of your legs?”
“Yeah I’m pretty toasted, but maybe I can follow Moos and Zdenek to the line so I don’t lose any time.” Mike’s breathing was coming quick, looking at Tristan he responded with me even having to ask.
“162 bpm with a cross wind.”
“Ok guys group together at the front – refuel and get ready, Zdenek will start then Moos pulling Mike hopefully we’ll be in the top ten. Good luck, Tristan and I are going to have to pull off soon so we’ll catch you at the finish.”
“Coach?” It was Moos
“Right here – what’s up?”
“The front is a mess we’re just going to try to stay out of trouble – no one wants to start a train, and I don’t think we’re strong enough to make our own. 5k from the finish, and we’re still looking for a wheel. What should we do?”
“Sounds like you doing the right thing. Keep doing what you’re doing; the other guys are getting tired too. Don’t take too many risks we have the leaders jersey locked up today. Remember there is always tomorrow.”
Mike looking good before the sprint – Leader’s Jersey looks good!
“Here we go!” It was Moos leading the charge, as Tristan and I pick up the action on the finish line jumbo board.
“It looks like our guys are out of this – Mike’s sitting in 20th? Damm these twists and turns it’s hard to see who’s got the right line and who’s making the most progress.
Stage Results
Rank Name Team Time
1 Óscar Freire RABOBANK 4h36'06
2 Tom Boonen QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC s.t.
3 Fred Rodriguez PREDICTOR - LOTTO s.t.
4 Stuart O'Grady TEAM CSC s.t.
5 Robert Förster GEROLSTEINER s.t.
6 Filippo Pozzato LIQUIGAS s.t.
7 David Kopp GEROLSTEINER s.t.
8 Andrew Randell SYMMETRICS CYCLING TEAM s.t.
9 Julian Dean CRÉDIT AGRICOLE s.t.
10 Enrico Gasparotto LIQUIGAS s.t. 41 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 52 Alexandre Moos BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 62 Aleksandr Pliuschin BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 77 Scott Moninger BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 79 Zdenek Stybar BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 83 Scott Nydam BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 90 Ken Hanson BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 116 Doug Ollerenshaw HEALTH NET PRESENTED BY MAXXIS + 18'31
Overall GC
Rank Name Team Time 1 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM 8h39'27
2 Serge Baguet QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC + 23
3 Óscar Freire RABOBANK + 46
4 Laszló Bodrogi CRÉDIT AGRICOLE + 47
5 Stefan Schumacher GEROLSTEINER s.t.
6 Johan Vansummeren PREDICTOR - LOTTO + 48
7 Bert Grabsch T-MOBILE TEAM + 49
8 Levi Leipheimer DISCOVERY CHANNEL + 51
9 Tom Boonen QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC + 52
10 Magnus Bäckstedt LIQUIGAS s.t.
44 Bobby Julich TEAM CSC + 1'01 45 Scott Moninger BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
53 Robert Förster GEROLSTEINER + 1'03 55 Ken Hanson BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
65 Kim Kirchen T-MOBILE TEAM + 1'07 66 Zdenek Stybar BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 85 Scott Nydam BMC CYCLING TEAM + 3'17
87 Andrew Randell SYMMETRICS CYCLING TEAM + 3'20 88 Alexandre Moos BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 110 Aleksandr Pliuschin BMC CYCLING TEAM + 8'27 116 Will Routley SYMMETRICS CYCLING TEAM + 24'08
Sprint Points
Rank Name Team Points General
1 Óscar Freire RABOBANK 31 43
2 Serge Baguet QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC 0 31
3 Stuart O'Grady TEAM CSC 14 28
4 Fred Rodriguez PREDICTOR - LOTTO 18 27
5 Stefan Schumacher GEROLSTEINER 0 25
6 Laszló Bodrogi CRÉDIT AGRICOLE 0 25
7 Enrico Gasparotto LIQUIGAS 6 22 8 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM 0 20 37 Ken Hanson BMC CYCLING TEAM 0 2 40 Cadel Evans PREDICTOR - LOTTO 0 1
KOM
Rank Name Team Mountain General
1 Manuel Quinziato LIQUIGAS 20 20
2 Dominique Cornu PREDICTOR - LOTTO 18 18
3 Doug Ollerenshaw HEALTH NET PRESENTED BY MAXXIS 16 16 4 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM 0 10
5 Johan Vansummeren PREDICTOR - LOTTO 0 8
6 Serge Baguet QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC 0 6
7 Fabian Wegmann GEROLSTEINER 0 4
8 Juan Antonio Flecha RABOBANK 0 2
9 Patrice Halgand CRÉDIT AGRICOLE 2 2
“Sorry Coach – I just missed the cut off.” George was beside himself.
“George, it was a gamble and it didn’t matter anyway you only had 16 pts so we would have lost the jersey anyway. We’ll get you ready for another race. Keep your chin up. The younger guys here need your support.”
“Thanks Coach, I’ll see you tomorrow.”
NOTE: Right after the race I sent Frankie off to coach the guys at the 2007 Trofeo Laigueglia
Frankie made it to the race site just before it began. This was the first race of the season for all of our riders participating. The guys were here for experience only and I didn’t expect results here since I was still in California
Riders chosen by Frankie and myself for Trofeo Laiguelia
Race Goals:
1. Place top ten
2. Get race experience
3. Work on sprint lead-out
4. Attack on final climb
Race Plan: “Frankie, I’m sending you to watch over the team here while I’m in California. Keep the group together, I expect early attacks and lots of them but stay home and see if you can attack on the final climb. If not then see what we can do on the sprint. Really try to keep the guys together and working on the sprint. A nicely formed train is one of our goals here.”
Riders Roles for Trofeo Laiguelia
“Sounds good Alex – I’ll update you via e-mail after the race. I’ll send over some pictures also, expect it late that night for your review.
Bike Set-up: “Have the bikes set-up for the mountains, I know there’s quite of bit of flat on the course, but the biggest advantage will be over the climbs, and we’re really not sending anyone who excels on the climbs so we need all the help we can get. Have a good race and we’ll see you when you get back.”
To: Alex Anderson
From:
CC:
BCC:
Subject: Trofeo Laiguelia race report
Race Profile
Alex, you were right about teams attacking early and often. Before we hit the first climb 9 riders had 2’ on the peleton. No one of consequence attacking though so I had out guys stay put. I was able to take a picture of Stewart before the start of the first climb of the day.
The guys seemed to hold together well up the first climb even thought the incline rose over 12%. I was surprised that the guys didn’t even seem to be working hard at all during this time but they still lost time to the break over the climb. By the time get got to the top the gap was over 5’.
The guys recovered from the first climb very well and were alert enough to avoid Sella when he hit the pavement. The break was increasing the gap this whole time. I think it grew to over 7’ at this point.
During the second climb the guys were going very well until Armstrong got a puncture about 5k from the summit. It was difficult getting the car stopped and the tire changed as quickly as possible. I had Stewart hold back and the two of them would have to work together to get back to the peleton.
Stewart comfortable on the second climb of the day.
At this point the break had about 9’ on the peleton and there really wasn’t any rush to pull them back in. In fact Stewart and Armstrong joined the peleton just before the summit of the climb. Armstrong used up a little more energy than he wanted so we’ll have to work on his conditioning a little when we get back home.
Armstrong would lose the pack for good on the downside, and I had Stewart leave him behind. Francaise des Jeux and Rabobank decided the gap to the front was big enough, so they really picked up the pace and before we hit the valley the gap was down to 8’.
[IMG-l]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/Chasingthepeleton.png[/IMG-l] Stewart and Armstrong trying to catch the peleton.
Our whole team was over the com indicating to me that the pace was too high and we were really struggling to keep with the peleton. I’d say the only exception to this was Galvin and Vitoria. Even though they were breathing hard, they tended to stay at the front of the peleton and out of trouble.
At the 75km mark to the finish, the frantic pace began to take its toll. We were one of several teams who were getting ‘thinned’ out and spit out the back of the peleton. I left McKissick and Miller down in the valley before the third and final climb of the day. They were riding with a group of about 30 riders who most likely would finish the day together.
By the time the third and final climb of the day came, the break only had a 2’45” lead on the peleton and they were driving hard. Our guys were just along for the ride at this point. We’d be lucky to bring the guys in with the lead group, and in fact Galvin who looked so good on the last climb was really struggling. Still there were 143 riders in the peleton and we were stretched out pretty good which made talking/seeing the guys during the ride very difficult. Usually one of them would ask me a question and I’d try to answer it a best as I could. I’m really going to have to work on multitasking in the car when you’re not here.
We were very lucky to have four riders reach the top of the third climb in the peleton. At the summit the break had been caught and Mazzanti had broken away from the rest of the group creating a gap of about 45”. A second group was chasing hard that included Boogerd from Rabobank, McGee, Ricco, and a Milram rider (Astarloa). Back in the peleton we had Vitoria, Hartley, Rosenbarger, and Stewart barely hanging on to a group that now only amounted to 142 riders.
Mazzanti on his own over the top of the 3rd climb. Could he hold on?
At around 25km to the finish Rosenbarger and Stewart ‘popped’ out the backside of the peleton – the lead group was now together and had a good jump on the peleton for about 2’. Our guys were finished and I told them to just ride in easy. If fact Armstrong was trailing the peleton by about 16km, still he didn’t abandon and finished the final climb. The peleton was about 100 riders at this point and all we had left was Vitoria and Hartley in the main group but they were about to be dropped also. Overall it was a dismal race for us, but at least the guys did get some racing experience.
Boogerd was very aggressive near the finish and was forced to leadout coming into the line. That played into the hands of Astarloa from Milram, and McGee. McGee ended up pulling Astarloa up to about 500 meters from the finish when the Milram rider went around him for the victory.
I’ll see you back in California soon.
Frankie
Astarloa too good at the line.
Overall Results:
Rank Name Team Time
1 Igor Astarloa TEAM MILRAM 5h02'23
2 Bradley McGee FRANÇAISE DES JEUX s.t.
3 Riccardo Riccò SAUNIER DUVAL - PRODIR s.t.
4 Luca Mazzanti CERAMICA PANARIA - NAVIGARE s.t.
5 Michael Boogerd RABOBANK s.t.
6 Leonardo Duque COFIDIS, LE CRÉDIT PAR TÉLÉPHONE s.t.
7 Mirko Celestino TEAM MILRAM s.t.
8 Sergio Marinangeli AURUM HOTELS - SAPORE DI MARE s.t.
9 Matteo Priamo CERAMICA PANARIA - NAVIGARE s.t.
10 Manuele Mori SAUNIER DUVAL - PRODIR s.t.
104 Mauro Santambrogio TEAM TENAX - MENIKINI + 2'37
135 Arnaud Gérard FRANÇAISE DES JEUX + 5'00 137 David Vitoria BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 138 Jacob Rosenbarger BMC CYCLING TEAM + 5'39 144 Chad Hartley BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
147 Paride Grillo CERAMICA PANARIA - NAVIGARE + 7'19 150 Jackson Stewart BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 178 Nathan Miller BMC CYCLING TEAM + 12'09 179 Ian McKissick BMC CYCLING TEAM + 12'33 180 David Galvin BMC CYCLING TEAM + 13'13 188 Brad Armstrong BMC CYCLING TEAM + 31'21
Feb 19th, 2007 – Amgen Tour of California (Stage 4 of 8)
“Hey Alex how’s everything today?” Adam met me outside my hotel early this morning and we decided to ride over to the staging area together. I was riding my stand-by CAAD4 Cannondale. Riding it calmed my nerves. “Mike’s having a great race and last night’s Board conference call was very nice to have. The members are very pleased including our sponsors.” Adam was grinning again his flashy carbon fiber ride humming next to me.
“I don’t know how long we can hold onto the Leader’s jersey – we already have lost the KOM jersey and I think it’s just a matter of time before the Leader’s goes with it. We have that long ITT on stage 6 that’s going to do us in.” My hip is a little sore this morning so my cadence is a little awkward as I adjusted myself on my saddle.”
“Alex – you’re always the worrier. I got the Trofeo Laiguelia results from Frankie last night - I’m disappointed in our results. We need to keep a better eye on our young guys, really 5’ down on the leader isn’t very good. I understand that this was their first race of the season, but I was hoping for a better showing from these guys in a minor race. Really the competition wasn’t that good.”
“I’ll make sure we do better on these evens from now on. I dropped this one into the schedule to try to get some guys some racing experience. You have to understand that. Were not going to place every race we start. Heck if you want these guys to grow as racers we’ll have quite of few of these results. What’s the real beef anyway? We have the Leader’s jersey in a major US stage race. That’s got to account for something.”
“Alex that will only last for so long……”
Stage 4 Goals:
1. Keep yellow jersey
2. Reserve energy
Stage 4 Plan: “Guys are you ready to race?” I ask as Adam and I roll into the staging area. Once again everyone looks ready to go. The trainers are all being used and Zdenek is on the trainers table getting a pre-race rubdown on his calves. “Hey Zdenek, are you sore?”
“No Coach, just want to be careful, I’m guessing you want me to take some chances today.” Zdenek gives me a little smile, actually it’s a smirk from across our staging area.
“Actually I got a different plan today. Why don’t you all come into the truck and we can discuss the plan for today.”
Stage 4 profile
“So Coach what do you have up your sleeve?” I’ve piqued Moos attention. The whole team is stuffed into our little trailer sitting any item that was laying around.
“Well, late last night TV coverage picked Zdenek, Moos and Pliuschin to be in the hunt at the finish. This is the first race this season we’ve even been mentioned as a top finisher for a stage. But we’re going to surprise everyone today – Nydam I want you to be in the early break, it doesn’t matter who goes, I want you in that break. No one is going to be watching you – how do your legs feel?”
“Pretty good Coach, don’t worry I won’t let the team down.
Rider roles Stage 4
“The rest of you guys are going to get to rest today. Nydam will be doing all the work he’s 3’17” down, so there’s not a huge threat if he goes early – but we are going for the win today. Does everyone understand the plan?” Everyone nodded in unison. “Great let’s get out there and kick some ass!”
Zdenek, Moos, Pliuschin are early speculation favorites.
Stage 4 Bike Set-up: “Hey Tristan do you think Scott has the legs today to get it done?” The team has left for the start and Tristan and I were walking to the team car.
“I don’t know – he seems top be in pretty good shape, and you’re right about him not being watched too closely. We’ll find out how serious he will take to the challenge today. I’m guessing we’ll be able to tell early on if the plan is going to work.”
“Yeah you’re right – it’s going to show early if he’s got the guts and legs to pull this off. I hope he does because I really don’t have a plan “B” set up today. Sayers will be watched closely also since he’s the GC leader – it will be nice being able to put someone in the early break and make these other teams chase it down, rather then us trying to bring it all back in.”
“Ok here we go,” I try to control my voice over the com. But I’m finding out early in my coaching career that the starts get me nervous just like when I was racing. “Is everyone set and ready to do this?”
“Coach, Scott here should I break right after the line or wait for someone to take me out?” Scott seems a little jumpy this morning.
“Wait for someone to break first then ride his wheel out from the peleton. You won’t use as much energy doing that and we’re not sure how your legs are going to react.”
“Ahhh! They’re on the move and I’m not at the front yet!” Scott is in full panic mode.
“Don’t stress Scott, who’s going off the front?” I’m trying to keep my voice calm.
“It looks like its Cozza and possibly Schawb from Quickstep I can’t quite tell from this far away. I’m almost to the front now, do you want me to try and follow?” Scotts breathing is coming harder over the com link.
“Coach! Help! I’ve got a flat!” It’s Hanson, and sure enough we come up to Ken on the side of the road.
“Tristan, quick pull over there and we’ll get Ken switched out fast. It’s still early and I think he can still get back into the pack.”
“Coach!” Scott is almost in a panic now.
“Don’t sweat Scott – give me a few seconds, Ken’s off the back with a flat that we’re changing as we speak. There you go Ken – here take another bottle. You’re going to have to spend some energy getting back to the pack. TRISTAN WHAT”S THE INTERVAL TO THE PELETON?!”
“We’re looking at 1’30”!” Tristan is leaning out the driver’s side window.
“Ok you heard him – go get back into the group. You can do this; otherwise your race is over.”
[IMG-L]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/Hansonpuncher137kmtofinish.png[/IMG-L] Hanson punctures – it’s still early though.
“Coach!” Scott is still in a panic
“Ok Scott – the race officials just came across the radio – You were right it’s Cozza from Slipstream and Schawb from Quickstep both are about a minute off the pace in the overall GC so I expect someone to setup a chase – we don’t want to chase today so let’s get in that attack. The two in front of you are only about 2’ up and the peleton isn’t reacting. So let’s give this a shot.”
“Great Coach – I’m off!” Scott seems to have calmed down a little; still that guy is going to die of a heart attack one of these days. “Coach, some Credit rider is behind me I can’t tell who it is yet. Should I sit up?”
“No that’s good, that way you don’t have to work so hard. I’ll let you know who it is in just a second once race officials make the announcement. How are you feeling?”
“Not too bad – legs are pretty good right now. I’m not sure what’s going to happen at the first climb.” Scotts breathing is coming a little quicker now.
“Just keep up the good work – you’re getting a gap on the peleton now and they aren’t reacting. Is the Credit rider still with you?”
“Yeah he’s here, I think its Rolland. He’s not going to help me bridge that gap to the front though. I think were about halfway there now.”
Photo Op – Scott on the early break, trying to bridge a 2’ gap against the wind.
“Coach?” It’s Ken again.
“Yeah? Good job getting back into the cars – just a little further and you’ll be back in the group. How are you feeling?”
“Not too bad and the bike seems to be ok – The rear derailuer seems be having trouble at the extreme ends but I’m sure that just the results of have a new rear wheel. I’ll be ok for the rest of the race.”
“Nydam how are you doing?” My voice is a little shaky over the intercom.
“Not bad but it’s not a walk in the park right now. Rolland is giving be absolutely no help. I can see the guys up the road, but I just can’t quite cut the gap down. Don’t worry I’m not going to give up just yet – I’ve raced against Cozza in the past I’m usually better then him in the hills and this first climb of the day is coming up.” Scott sounds pretty good right now.
“Alex the official time gaps just came in and they’ll let us up to Scott if we want. 130km to the finish, Scott and Rolland have 1’30” on the peleton but the gap to the leaders is 45” and holding.” Tristan barks the stats over the radio.
“Did you hear that Scott?” I ask.
“Yeah - I will close that gap just give me a little more time. I’m feeling pretty good right now and the road is beginning to rise.”
“Tristan let’s move up to Scott I want to actually see how he’s doing.”
“No problem Boss.”
“Coach? It’s Zdenek, Discovery and Gerolsteiner have taken the head of the peleton. Levi and Schumacher are barking instructions to almost all their guys. What are the current gaps?” Zdenek doesn’t seem too concerned but more perplexed that anything else.
“How do you do it?” Tristan is looking at me, just staring.
“Watch the road dummy – we’re going to drive up Scott’s a$$ if you’re not careful. I knew someone was going to have to give chase – we’ve got a rider out front so the rest of our guys can take the day off unless the gaps get too big. We just might hold onto the leader’s jersey today if everything goes well. By the way what is race radio saying about the gaps? I’m showing just over 100km to the finish off the GPS.”
“OK guys listen up.” Tristan has been working on his command tone….. I’ll have to remember this. “Race radio is reporting P1 is 5’35” up on the peleton about 10km for the top of the first climb. Peleton is starting to close the gap with Discovery and Gerolsteiner still controlling the tempo. Scott is still leading the P2 group only 40” back of the leaders. He’s getting no help from Credit rider Rollins –we’ll have to remember that. Still he’s reporting that he’s feeling pretty good and we’re right here giving him support. Keep to the plan we discussed, everything is looking good if Scott can bridge this gap.”
“Scott?” I’m leaning out the window handing him a drink. We’re midway through the climb and Scott was still 40” down – “You’re going to have to catch these guys before the down slope or I’m going to have to pull you back into the peleton. I know you’re feeling good but you still have a long way to go and I want you to have something left over for tomorrow. Do you think you can catch them? You’ve been sitting at 40” for about 30km.”
“Yeah – I can feel it, in fact I’m going to close in on the now.”
“Don’t talk about it, just do it. The Marshal is telling us we have to move – we’ll see you on the flat. Be careful and by the way great climb.”
[IMG-L]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/Nydamcatchingtheleadinggroup95km.png[/IMG-L] Scott finally reaching the front group after 35km in the saddle
“Thanks.” And off he went.
“Look, Rollins can’t follow!” Sure enough Tristan was right Rollins couldn’t keep up with the new tempo being set by Scott. He was eating up the distance to the leaders with every pedal stroke.
“Where the H*ll did Liquigas come from?” Scott sounds flabbergasted as Vanotti came around him. No one let me know that he was bridging the gap. Did he just ride 5’ solo?”
“Tristan – you’re listening to race radio nothing came across about Liquigas? I can’t believe he gapped 5’ without any notice.
“I never heard anything on radio somehow he was missed by the officials.” Tristan was sweating.
“Come on, there had to have been some sort of announcement, you just don’t ride away from the peleton and bridge a 5’ gap without SOMEONE saying something!” I’m yelling now. “Forget it, Scott don’t panic Vanotti will just help you guys get to the summit. You’re lead is just under 5’ and the top is within sight.”
“Tristan let’s pull alongside Nydam and see how he’s doing – it been a while now and he looks like he’s tired.”
“Not a problem let me get around the Slipstream support car and we can get along side Scott. What are you going to tell him?” Tristan was always full of questions, I can’t tell sometimes if he’s dumb or just inquisitive.
“Scott!” I’m yelling out the window gesturing to him. “I’ve got a drink and wanted to touch base with you. How are you feeling?”
Scott grabs the side of the car. “Not too good to tell you the truth. My legs are burning and the rolling terrain is killing me today, wind is from the left then the right I just can’t get comfortable.”
“Let’s take a break – your lead on the peleton is closing and you’re only 4’ up on the peleton right now with the ‘big’ boys pulling it along. Sit off the back of this group and ride it out. Cozza is the leader in overall GC sitting at 57” off the pace, he’s the one we need to cover. Schawb is 1’06” and Vanotti is sitting at 1’14”. Vanotti has got to be cooked bridging that gap even though he’s had a chance to recover now. I just don’t see how he can keep up.
“How far to the finish?” Scott’s breathing seems pretty good, other than what he’s told me you can’t tell he’s laboring right now.
“Tristan what’s the official distance to the finish and Scott’s HBM?” I yell over the motorcycle that was passing us.
Scott sitting off the back on the lead group as instructed 75km to finish.
“We’re looking at 75km and he’s sitting at 165!” The wind outside the car carrying away his voice so I could hardly hear him.
“Scott did you hear him?”
“No! what did he say?”
“75km to the finish – do you think you can hold on if you don’t take any pulls?”
“I should be able to, but fending off any attacks might prove difficult.”
“Go ahead and do it – let’s see what the peleton does over the next few miles. I have to go this official on the motorbike is signaling us to separate.”
‘Ok Coach, talk to you soon.”
“Alex – race radio just reported an attack from the peleton. Rabobank just sent Flecha to try and bridge the gap!” Tristan is his usually excitable self.
“Man he’s either feeling really good or Rabobank is desperate, let’s see how this plays out. Radio the guys and tell them to sit tight. Wait for further instructions, and be ready to react immediately.”
“Got it Coach.” As Tristan relayed my instruction, I was accessing my laptop for overall GC breakdowns – where was he? Flecha….Flecha… Ahhh there he is; sitting only 59” off the overall GC lead. This could get interesting.
“How are the guys feeling?” I asked after Tristan was done reporting to the team.
“Everyone seems to be in good spirits – the Yellow jersey seems to help.” Tristan couldn’t help grinning.
“Here comes Flecha.” Both Tristan and I had been keeping our eyes on our rearview mirrors. “He looks pretty good for gapping a 3’ break.” I’m amazed in this guys conditioning.
Sayers in yellow taking it easy in the Peleton only 74km to finish.
“Race radio just reported McEwen (Predictor) is being spit out the back of the peleton. This is only a small rise in the road, his conditioning must really be bad right now. I had expected him to keep up with the peleton at least.” Tristan was stunned at this report – I kind of expected it because this stage was really harder than the analysis indicated. The winds were always swirling around and the inclines seem to go on forever.
“What’s the lead on the peleton?”
“They’re still looking at 2’45” with under 60km to the finish. There’s still one more climb. If the break reaches the summit before the peleton bridges the gap they could make it. Do you want to send someone to the front to help Discovery?” Once again Tristan is jumpy.
“No let’s see what happens in the final climb. We could get a top 5 finish if the break makes the final climb. Then we can take pulls at the front to make sure we’re within 30” that will give us the leader’s jersey tomorrow.” Outside my face was calm but inside my stomach was churning and my heart was beating fast too fast. I’d hate to be strapped to a heart monitor right now.
“Coach! Schleck is going! It’s a serious attack! Damm he looks strong!” Sayers was on the com. “What should we do? We weren’t watching him closely and he’s already flying down the road. I’d say the gap is over 1’ and rising!”
“Dammit, I should have seen this coming, I can’t believe I wasn’t watching him. Tristan drop back and let’s see what’s going on.”
“No problem Alex – should we go all the way back to the peleton or just fall in being Schleck?”
“Just drop in behind Schleck, I don’t think the marshals are going to let us drop too far back on the climb.” Doubt was creeping into my skull, I hate being unprepared for an attack. “Where are the rest of the guys?” I bark into the com.
Sayers is on again, “We were sitting about mid pack just watching Gerolsteiner take the lead while CSC and Discovery dropped off the head when Schleck took off. Another attack! Aerts and Louder just jumped off the front do you want to send someone with them?”
“No sit tight, this is a very troubling attack and could be a deciding one. I’ve been watching Scott all race he just might have enough to fend it off let’s see what transpires over the next few miles.”
We’ve been sitting behind Schleck and his support car for about 5 minutes now and it obvious that he not going to bridge the gap! He’s stuck in no man’s land about 25” short of Scott. Aerts and Louder are stuck about 45” behind Schleck. “Scott take at turn at the front! Schleck has dropped short of you guys and he has no help! Step up the pace a notch also this could be your chance!”
“No problem Coach! I’m moving to the front.”
[IMG-L]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/Schleckjustshort.png[/IMG-L] Schleck coming up short. His failure may cost him here.
“Alex there’s only 46km to go and the gap to the leaders isn’t closing do you want to take some pulls on the front?” Tristan brings me back to the rest of the guys racing. It’s amazing how easily you can get distracted with just one rider. I’m going to have to learn how to divide my attention better.
“Yeah put the guys on front just to pick up the pace a little, not too much, just enough so the gap starts to close.”
46km – BMC taking control 2’30” and chasing.
“Alex your plan seems to be working. Scott is ripping apart the lead group. Cozza and Flecha are dropped from Scott’s group and are now with Schleck, Aerts and Louder. Offical gaps are coming in right now: P1 includes Scott, and Vanotti they are up on P2 by 1’14”. P2 group includes Cozza, Schawb, Schleck, Flecha, Aerts and Louder. They are 1’49” up on the Peleton. Which we are driving – Cozza and Schawb are faltering pretty badly and aren’t taking turns pulling in their group. It’s just a matter of time before they break apart.”
“Ok guys only 30km to go. How’s everyone feeling?” I ask into the com.
“Pretty good Coach” comes a round of replies.
“Alex; Cozza and Flecha can’t hold on!” Tristan is pointing at the P2 group who we’re still driving behind. Sure enough these two are spent they’ll be lucky to finish with the peleton at this point. “GPS indicates a 2’30” lead to Scott over the peleton. It may not be accurate but I haven’t received an official report in a while.”
“Yeah Coach – the motorbike board just came through,” Scott sounds very tired and is breathing hard. “They gave Vanotti and I, 2’33” with the summit only 2km away. What’s the gap back to the peleton? I’m really hurting right now and I don’t think I can hold on much longer.”
“Attack! Sayers in the peleton was yelling into the com. “Voight (CSC) and Hagland (Credit) just got up and took off. Wait – false alarm we’re setting too high of a pace for them to get away.”
[IMG-l]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/Nydamleading33kmtogo.png[/IMG-l] Scott leading the charge over the final climb.
“You still have 1’30 on the peleton Scott.” I’m whispering into the com. We’re on the down slope now only about 15km from the finish. “You can do this – only Vanotti is with you, work with him until the 10km mark then let him lead you in. I’m going to pull the team off the front of the peleton at about the same time to insure we keep the leader jersey. You can do this.”
“Alex – the peleton just swept up everyone except Schawb, Scott and Vanotti.” Tristan’s voice is high pitched as we are ushered off the course over the final stretch. “I hate this part because we really can see much until we get to the jumbo board at the finish. I’ll hurry.”
“I just hit the 10km banner – Schawb just joined us again. Where did he come from? What’s the gap to the peleton?”
“I’m guessing it’s about 1’. I just pulled the guys off the front and the chase is really disorganized right now, that may buy you guys some time. Don’t worry we’ve locked up the yellow jersey for another day – just sit behind Vanotti and Schawb you’re the better sprinter make them do the work.
“Schawb just cracked!” It was Scott again. “We rode under the 5k banner and he just sat up.”
“Pay attention Scott! Vanotti knows you’re better just cover his moves.”
“Here come some guys trying to bridge the gap!” I’m yelling into the com now. Tristan and I have made it to the finish line and Scott and Vanotti are about 3.5km out from the finish. “Go! Go!” I’m yelling into the com now. The pack is breathing down their throats……
[IMG-l]https://i283.photobucket.com/albums/kk310/bobhazen/Nydamin2ndwith4.png[/IMG-l] Scott and Vanotti in the final kms – will they be caught?
“Alex, look at that move! He’s moving around Vanotti! Damm here comes the pack…” Tristan was squeezing my arm pretty tight. But he was right, Vanotti had done all he could, Scott made the right move could he hang on was the only question.
Scott on the move, only .5km to the finish.
“AGGGGRRRR!!!” Scott’s mouth was wide open coming to the line, Vanotti hasn’t given up and here comes the pack. Only about 300 meters separates the leaders from the front of the peleton. We’ll be holding the leader’s jersey tonight again for sure, the only question remains could Scott hold off the pack. Ever so slowly the finish was creeping towards Scott and it seemed the sprinters were gobbling up pavement in chunks. Watching the board I couldn’t tell if he was going to make it. Vanotti didn’t have enough to catch him now. 200 meters, the gap closes fast, the pain on Scott’s face is driving me insane. 100 meters. The lead sprinters are now on Vanotti’s wheel he’s fading fast, but then motion seems to stop – the gap from Vanotti to Scott increases slightly to about 2 bike lengths, and the chasing sprints seem ‘stuck’ to Vanotti’s wheel. Scott’s going to win!
Scott Wins! Scott Wins! Scott Wins!
“Can you believe it?!” Tristan is screaming into my ear hugging me. “It’s amazing! I can’t believe.” Tristan grabs my face and kisses me on the cheek, first one side then the other. Hmmmm I don’t think I like that European custom, just a little to fem for me.
“Stop it! I yell over the crowd noise, pulling my face away from his grasp. “We need to get to Scott, he’s exhausted!” Working our way through the crowd, Scott is swarmed by photographers and teammates holding him and his bike up. Slowly they work their way through the crowd and meet up with Tristan and I. “Great ride Scott! Remember this moment and have fun!” I’m almost screaming into his hear as he hugs me. His body limp and exhausted from his effort. “I’ll see you back at the truck – go get your yellow jersey.” Then he was gone; his bike slowly moving through the crowd toward the podiums and awaiting media. Somewhere inside me I had an empty feeling – somehow the accomplishment meant nothing to me maybe because I didn’t ride that race? Was it self pity? Before I could reflect more I was trounced by the media, somehow I was separated from Tristan and was encircled by cameras.
“When did you know Scott was going to win?!”
“Was this you plan to win on a long breakaway?!”
“Now that you have the Yellow jersey, won a stage, and have held the KOM jersey would BMC consider this tour a success?”
“Do you expect to hold the leader’s jersey tomorrow and if so, will you try to defend it over the long ITT on stage 6?”
“Obviously Scott’s form is good right now, was that taken into account when you choose to send him early this morning?”
“Slow down everyone – I’ll try to answer all questions a best as I can.” I straightened out my arms to make a little space for myself. “First and foremost I want to thank Scott and the team for their hard work out there today. Without the team, our results today wouldn’t have happened. Even though the break made it through to the end, we as a team had to make sure the gap wasn’t big enough so we would lose the overall GC lead. There were some very dangerous riders out on the early break that could have done a lot of damage if our team didn’t respond like we did. The guys did exactly everything we talked about last night and this morning during the walkthrough. They need to be commended for their execution of the plan.” I was there alone clapping for my riders as everyone just stood with recorders, cameras, and notepads. Gesturing over the reports heads in the general direction Scott had disappeared, I added: “With that being said, Scott rode the race of his career today. He’s been training hard this winter and it shows. Amgen has always been a major target race on BMC’s calendar and with the hard work of our riders and our trainers everything came together today.”
“When did you know Scott was going to win?”
“Really I didn’t think he was going to make it even when he went past Vanotti there near the end. The sprinters in the peleton were coming so hard up to the line I didn’t think Scott had another gear like he did. I guess that’s why we race everyday – anyone of these riders could come out here and get a win. It was just Scott’s turn.”
“How about defending the Yellow jersey tomorrow?”
“To be honest, we’ve already exceeded my expectations for this tour – can we hold onto the jersey tomorrow? Yeah I think we can if everything goes our way, hopefully the other teams are looking for a rest tomorrow with the long ITT coming up. But I’m sure some team will take a crack at it. We won’t know until someone tries I guess.”
“What about the ITT, BMC’s roster really isn’t built for a good showing on stage 6; what do you anticipate will happen here?”
“Again we planned to capture the KOM jersey for one day on this tour and that was our goal – therefore I brought a roster to Amgen to accomplish that goal. Luckily we reached this goal early on in the race – now we had a little bad luck with George not making the time cutoff the other day, but other than that things are going well. True I didn’t put a TT specialist on our roster, but we’ll contend with that when we get there.”
“Mike got a little rest today sitting in the peleton – is he going to try to stretch out a larger lead tomorrow?”
“I really couldn’t tell you at this point. This stage just finished and I haven’t ever talked to my guys yet. I guess anything is possible…..”
“Your old childhood friend Scott Townsand was quoted on network TV today that he watched you during your career use blood enhancers and EPO and that now BMC’s results here in California are a result in you passing down your knowledge on how to beat the system. What do you say regarding these allegations?”
This question stopped me dead in my tracks……. I felt like a deer in headlights. “He said what?” The reporter started to repeat her question but I stopped her short. “I’m not sure where Scott is coming from anymore. He knows better than anyone that this isn’t true. Cycling is going through a difficult time right now and to throw out that kind of crap and trash is unfathomable to me. His agenda is for himself and himself only. If what you are saying that he said is true, it only shows that he doesn’t care about the sport of cycling. Comments like that are only going to detract from the huge strides that the UCI has made over the past year in testing and policing the sport and I can’t understand Scott’s intentions. If anyone has any more questions regarding today’s stage I’d be happy to answer, but I won’t comment on any other hearsay from Scott.”
“No, well thank you for your time and I’ll see you all tomorrow.” Damm this is going no where good. What the h#ll is Scott up to?
Stage 4 Results:
Rank Name Team Time 1 Scott Nydam BMC CYCLING TEAM 3h41'05
2 Alessandro Vanotti LIQUIGAS s.t.
3 Filippo Pozzato LIQUIGAS s.t.
4 Patrice Halgand CRÉDIT AGRICOLE s.t.
5 Davide Rebellin GEROLSTEINER s.t.
6 Luca Paolini LIQUIGAS s.t.
7 Óscar Freire RABOBANK s.t.
8 Stefan Schumacher GEROLSTEINER s.t.
9 Jakob Piil T-MOBILE TEAM s.t.
10 Fred Rodriguez PREDICTOR - LOTTO s.t. 29 Alexandre Moos BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 33 Ken Hanson BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 35 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 36 Zdenek Stybar BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 40 Scott Moninger BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 41 Aleksandr Pliuschin BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t.
42 Janez Brajkovic DISCOVERY CHANNEL s.t. 116 Cameron Evans SYMMETRICS CYCLING TEAM + 20'07
Overall GC Standings:
Rank Name Team Time 1 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM 12h20'32
2 Serge Baguet QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC + 23
3 Óscar Freire RABOBANK + 46
4 Stefan Schumacher GEROLSTEINER + 47
5 Johan Vansummeren PREDICTOR - LOTTO + 48
6 Bert Grabsch T-MOBILE TEAM + 49
7 Filippo Pozzato LIQUIGAS + 50
8 Levi Leipheimer DISCOVERY CHANNEL + 51
9 Danny Pate TEAM SLIPSTREAM + 52
10 Jens Voigt TEAM CSC s.t. 37 Scott Moninger BMC CYCLING TEAM + 1'01 44 Ken Hanson BMC CYCLING TEAM + 1'03
54 Kim Kirchen T-MOBILE TEAM + 1'07 55 Zdenek Stybar BMC CYCLING TEAM s.t. 66 Scott Nydam BMC CYCLING TEAM + 2'57 67 Alexandre Moos BMC CYCLING TEAM + 3'20 97 Aleksandr Pliuschin BMC CYCLING TEAM + 8'27 116 Cameron Evans SYMMETRICS CYCLING TEAM + 29'04
Sprint Standings:
Rank Name Team Points General
1 Óscar Freire RABOBANK 9 52
2 Serge Baguet QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC 3 34
3 Filippo Pozzato LIQUIGAS 16 33
4 Stefan Schumacher GEROLSTEINER 8 33
5 Fred Rodriguez PREDICTOR - LOTTO 6 33
6 Stuart O'Grady TEAM CSC 1 29
7 Enrico Gasparotto LIQUIGAS 5 27
8 Alessandro Vanotti LIQUIGAS 26 26
9 Luca Paolini LIQUIGAS 10 25
10 Laszló Bodrogi CRÉDIT AGRICOLE 0 25 11 Scott Nydam BMC CYCLING TEAM 25 25 12 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM 0 20 41 Ken Hanson BMC CYCLING TEAM 0 2 45 Cadel Evans PREDICTOR - LOTTO 0 1
KOM:
Rank Name Team Mountain General
1 Alessandro Vanotti LIQUIGAS 24 24
2 Hubert Schwab QUICKSTEP - INNERGETIC 22 22
3 Manuel Quinziato LIQUIGAS 0 20
4 Dominique Cornu PREDICTOR - LOTTO 0 18
5 Doug Ollerenshaw HEALTH NET PRESENTED BY MAXXIS 0 16 6 Scott Nydam BMC CYCLING TEAM 14 14 7 Mike Sayers BMC CYCLING TEAM 0 10
8 Johan Vansummeren PREDICTOR - LOTTO 0 8
9 Steven Cozza TEAM SLIPSTREAM 8 8
10 Mario Aerts PREDICTOR - LOTTO 8 8
17 Eric Wohlberg SYMMETRICS CYCLING TEAM 2 2
“Can you believe that guy?” I’m almost screaming now inside the team truck. I’m sure the guys outside can hear us but I really don’t care.
“Calm down Alex.” Adam is trying to be the voice of reason. Tristan and Frankie have joined us, Frankie just coming back from Trofeo Laiguelia walked into this, I feel sorry for him I don’t think he’s had a night sleep in about 72 hrs. He looks really tired.
“Calm down?! Calm down?! That guy is smearing my name and bringing BMC with it! I’ve stayed away from that stuff my whole career, and actually my career suffered because everyone else was doing it! Now he comes in here and destroys everything we’ve accomplished over the past few months!?! Then you tell me to calm down?! How can you not be pissed off over this? The Board is going to want a full investigation; we’ll have to spend more money and spend less time planning for the future. Not to mention that Scott won’t shut up about this. Once the media takes off, Scott will soak it up like a sponge. He’s a leech for attention and he won’t stop.
“Alex, go back to the hotel and try to relax. There’s nothing we can do right now and I need you to concentrate on getting the guys ready for tomorrow. You have the evening drive through with the team for tomorrow’s stage, dinner and the planning session with Tristan and myself. Isn’t Frankie joining us tomorrow morning?”
“Yeah He’ll be really tired from jet lag but he wanted to be with the team here.”
“Let’s have George join us for the planning session – another input wouldn’t hurt at this stage and I think he’s a little down having to abandon due to time.” Tristan always had the pulse of our riders, where would I be without him right now? I’m a mess maybe going back to the hotel to get a short nap might help.
“Sounds good George could give us some valuable information and maybe I can use for planning tomorrow. Tristan I need you to spend some time with the guys before tonight’s planning session I need to know who’s hurting and who’s feeling good. I’ll see you all at 5:00 pm for the drive through make sure no one is late – Dinner will follow right after.”
I'm adding a poll to get some feedback. The new version of the game looks really promising - and I'm torn between buying it and continuing this story. (Right now I'm leaning toward continuing the story.)
On another note, you might have noticed I've slowed down my posting. It's not because I've stopped playing, but because I can't devote a ton of time to writing the story right now. With in the next 45 days this should improve.
Your feedback is appriciated.
*Note: I am looking for a new jersey design for the second season - if anyone is interested in designing one for me just PM me the finished product. Also include a brief history regarding the design so I can incorporate it into the story.
Coming back soon! I've finished moving the family and we're getting settled down. I'll slowly start submitting the story again. (Kinda tough because of all the current dope issues - but I'll continue the story in my own bubble).
