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Around SBN: Knicks 90, Raptors 87: "Shump and Lin wouldn't let us lose."

Le Tour '07: Stage 14 Live!

30102_394659898780_714513780_3911404_852720_n_tiny by Chris Fontecchio on in News

Up Up and Away... Pez has been interviewing Greg LeMond lately, and he said something that surprised me. He said that he hated the rest days, they interrupted the rhythm of the race and he didn't necessarily feel like resting. I've always assumed that riders in the middle of an incredibly grueling three-week race wouldn't mind a breather, and in fact it would improve the racing the day before and after, knowing a rest was coming. Apparently it helps to ride the Tour to understand how it works. Who knew?

Anyway, the difficulty of yesterday and tomorrow makes me think that today might be a great day to attack. OTOH, what the hell do I know... Enjoy! [Oh, and we probably will need a new thread at 250 comments today. Don't be surprised.]

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Vino attacks!
    Testing ... testing ... one two three testing
The S. Obedient Flying Dog Boy

by flying dog on Jul 22, 2007 6:44 AM EDT reply actions  

De LaFuente, Soler and Popovych
contesting mountain points already.  Rasmussen sneaks off the front, chased down by Evans' squad.  This is going to be fun.
The S. Obedient Flying Dog Boy

by flying dog on Jul 22, 2007 6:49 AM EDT reply actions  

15 minute pre-race informercial on VS
for Pos-T-Vac vacuum device for erectile disfunction. This is what VS shows at 5:30 AM cdt.

by hughw on Jul 22, 2007 7:14 AM EDT reply actions  

from CN
Current situation

    * Iván Gutiérrez (Caisse d'Epargne), Rubén Pérez (Euskaltel-Euskadi), Carlos Barredo (Quickstep-Innergetic), Amets Txurruka (Euskaltel-Euskadi), Antonio Colom (Astana) and Aleksandr Kuschynski (Liquigas)
    * Peloton at 10.20

America is all about speed. Hot, nasty, badass speed. -Eleanor Roosevelt

by ELVISGOAT on Jul 22, 2007 7:56 AM EDT reply actions  

NOS Stream is running
not talking heads. 94.7 km to go.

10:10 to the break. Peleton in the feed zone. Rabo all over the front.

-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 8:14 AM EDT reply actions  

Moreau is off the back
WTF. Looks like mechanical problems.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 8:16 AM EDT reply actions  

Anyone speak spanish ?
"Mi Tour ha terminado"
Los médicos sospechan que Valverde, que fue "de menos a menos", ha incubado un virus.
http://www.elpais.com/articulo/deportes/Tour/ha/terminado/elpepudep/20070722elpepidep_4/Tes

by lucybears on Jul 22, 2007 8:31 AM EDT reply actions  

Virus?
Needs no translation, perhaps...
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 8:32 AM EDT up reply actions  

Mornin all!
So I was lying in bed thinking, don't be an idiot and get up at 4:30, to watch 90 minutes of gruppo compatto before the attacks. Instead, there's only 60 minutes. Swish!
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 8:31 AM EDT reply actions  

SD Pulling?
Because the field are going to cry uncle and let Mayo go? Not too sure about that one.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 8:37 AM EDT reply actions  

Shorter Levi
I plan to follow wheels for three days and hope everyone disappears.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 8:45 AM EDT reply actions  

SD are pounding it
Port de Pailheres in about 5-10 minutes. Something brewing?? If anyone's not on their game, the trouble will start early.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 8:54 AM EDT reply actions  

Klodi: Alex is the leader
Hm... We'll see.

Break is on the climb. Leakygas guy starting to hurt.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:00 AM EDT reply actions  

I wonder if
Valverde will make it over the first climb?

Everyone else might want to keep it holstered til then, but if VV is sick, he's not gonna get over the top with the leaders.

I can't imagine why SD are doing so much work if Mayo wasn't planning to make a move soon.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:02 AM EDT reply actions  

I will be surprised if Vino
can hang with the climbers through these mountains.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:04 AM EDT reply actions  

Break tactics
made simple: follow the Basque guy. He ain't slowing down.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:07 AM EDT reply actions  

Autobus taking shape.
Seats reserved for most of FdJeux.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:08 AM EDT reply actions  

DAMMIT!!
I can't take these ads. I need coffee...
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:09 AM EDT reply actions  

The subaru ad would be improved
if a bear attacked the spokesman.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:10 AM EDT reply actions  

But
there's no improving the Summer of Violence ad. I thought this was a hors commercial segment?

Moreau hanging back. Once more for the Dauphine champ... June is too early, apparently.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:13 AM EDT reply actions  

The Tongueis hanging out
with the sprinters

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 9:13 AM EDT reply actions  

at least Moreau took a real
crack at the GC. Yes, he flamed out, but he didn't go into stage win mode right at the start.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:14 AM EDT reply actions  

oh well
there go my predictions / / /

by R Mc on Jul 22, 2007 9:40 AM EDT up reply actions  

Cioni is already gone
Horner should be able to hang with Cattle at least over this first beast.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:15 AM EDT reply actions  

This doesn't suck
Rode my bike up from San Diego to San Juan Capistrano yesterday

Today, I'm hanging at the beach, watching the tour, reading PC 'cause the rental has high speed wireless!

:)

Vacation is good.

by johnw on Jul 22, 2007 9:17 AM EDT reply actions  

sweet
I'm about due for some vaca myself.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:18 AM EDT up reply actions  

who are these ads for?
I don't want any of that crap...
Power Chairs, Tapout, deer antlers, and high heels... looks random as hell

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 9:18 AM EDT reply actions  

I used to
hate all that stuff, but now I'm beginning to have second thoughts...
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:24 AM EDT up reply actions  

I... can't...
it's too powerful
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:26 AM EDT up reply actions  

Millar turning the screw
Cobo is helping to dish out the pain. de la Fuente is up there, too.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:21 AM EDT reply actions  

Burghardt makes it half way up
That dude is going to stomp in the classics next year.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:23 AM EDT reply actions  

Astanas looming behind SDV
These guys are waiting and waiting and waiting.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:24 AM EDT reply actions  

Cobo blown
Too bad. Another guy whose year-long VDS value is going way up.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:24 AM EDT reply actions  

SAAB
Born from herring.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:25 AM EDT reply actions  

Replace TroutWig
with Tom Bodet (Motel 6 guy)

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 9:27 AM EDT reply actions  

Millar time!
Any read on Vino?
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:30 AM EDT reply actions  

he looks reasonably good, though
didn't look like he was struggling.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:30 AM EDT reply actions  

The Tour
must be easy to find. Follow the stream of water bottles.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:31 AM EDT reply actions  

CCCRRAACKCKKKKK!!
Vino!!!!
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:31 AM EDT reply actions  

Vino wants a
 "...little captain in him."

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 9:31 AM EDT reply actions  

Vino is toast
I don't think it had anything to do with energy spent yesterday, he prepared for the TTs, and is going to lose time in the mountains.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:32 AM EDT reply actions  

Holy sheit...
Vino is seriously leaking oil. He's about 7-8 seconds off the back already.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:32 AM EDT reply actions  

Wow
will Klodi drop back to help his captain?

Yaro-pop sliding back. No polka dots for you!

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:33 AM EDT reply actions  

Vino can catch back over the top
maybe, but he's going to lose 10 minutes on the final climb.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:34 AM EDT reply actions  

yup
the story isn;'t the gap, it's the legs. Or the knee.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:36 AM EDT up reply actions  

Big action onthe Pailheres!
So of course we're watching the stupid DirecTV ad.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:34 AM EDT reply actions  

Mayo and Sastre
will need to go ape shit on the last climb.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:35 AM EDT reply actions  

Mayo/SAstre
Wouldn't that be something? Throw two more names back in the hopper?
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:36 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler is in that group
Rabo setting the pace now.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:37 AM EDT reply actions  

Kaboom!
Millar. Nicely done!

Rabo take the controls... Chicken looking comfy enough.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:38 AM EDT reply actions  

Millar
Was a great ride today by Millar...

But why is this guy so popular?  Is it simply because he's from the UK?  I've been wondering this for years.

by Burgundy and Gold on Jul 22, 2007 9:39 AM EDT up reply actions  

Boogie
going out head held high.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:39 AM EDT reply actions  

Vino back to the Dr
for a swig from the cough syrup bottle of courage

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 9:40 AM EDT reply actions  

Vino troubles
back at the medic car. I think his Tour really is over now.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:40 AM EDT reply actions  

what is accelerade
and where can i buy it

...ads too convincing...

by Burgundy and Gold on Jul 22, 2007 9:42 AM EDT reply actions  

anyone use
Accelerade?  Does it work?

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 9:42 AM EDT reply actions  

I've used it for the last three
years for marathons and long rides. It is great. I like the orange flavour.
"The ox is slow but the earth is patient."

by Teel 22 on Jul 22, 2007 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions  

Those accelerade ads got to me
I bought some of the powder. I did not obtain super powers as a result.

It's a bit like drinking milk, but it's pretty refreshing.

-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:43 AM EDT reply actions  

imagine
gatorade with a whey kick

now imagine what it tastes like after 3 hours in your bottle, in 95 degree temperatures . . .

Eewwww.

by R Mc on Jul 22, 2007 9:54 AM EDT up reply actions  

Who is
this animator dude? And should I care that he uses HP computers?

I think not

by johnw on Jul 22, 2007 9:44 AM EDT reply actions  

Big Action on the first climb
the Plateau will be a blast...I'm gonna start drinking Accelerade and Capt. Morgan to get ready for it

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 9:45 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler is looking twitchy
near the summit. Will Ras go for KOM points?
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:45 AM EDT reply actions  

Ras looks very easy
As does Menchov, really. He must be thinking of what could have been.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:47 AM EDT reply actions  

Basques on the war path
as they summit the climb.

Peleton is 1 km behind the break.

-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:49 AM EDT reply actions  

Nice crowds
at the top. Can't wait for the next peak. I suspect we're looking at a huge day... tomorrow's course is comparatively dull.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:49 AM EDT reply actions  

The French-ness is getting to me
but I'm begining to like Vino more and more as he takes a pounding and looks human...Eternal Second and all that...

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 9:49 AM EDT reply actions  

Mayo digging deep
Barlow world goes again!

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 9:50 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler attacks!
1km too early?

Mayo losing it! So SD are just on loan to Rabo?

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:50 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler takes the points
and makes it look very easy.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:51 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler alone
gets the 5th place KOM points. He's way back, nobody is interested in him for overall. He'd been close enough to watch before the time trial.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 9:52 AM EDT reply actions  

Scary descent
nasty switchbacks, and steep drops every which way.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:52 AM EDT reply actions  

great time for a commercial for
random Bull Riding stuff... prepare yourself for a "Worst Commercials of the TdF Poll"

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 9:54 AM EDT up reply actions  

the penis pump infomercial
is the worst. If it weren't for the TdF, I would never have seen that.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions  

I have been spared the sight
but I've heard others talking in "Shocked" tones

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions  

It comes down to the final climb
with Rabo in control, and looking strong with Dekker and Menchov there for the Ras. His grip on yellow is getting stronger by the kilometer.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:54 AM EDT reply actions  

but he needs time for the last TT
even with cow's blood he can't hold out without more time

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions  

no risk takers left
Sastre will play it too coo'. Levi too. Maybe Contater.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions  

I shouldn't
what with that Moreau comment. but . . .

All of a sudden, Astana looks pretty vulnerable, and  ~:> won't have Dekker and Boogerd up the Plateau.  Who does that leave?

Contador's gonna go . . . so the real question is how many minutes does he take?

by R Mc on Jul 22, 2007 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions  

Contador attack would have made
sense on the first climb. Rabo and Ras will limit the losses, if any on the last climb.

No pressure on Ras or Rabo by anyone.

-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 9:58 AM EDT reply actions  

Contador
is a potential aggressor, IMHO.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:01 AM EDT reply actions  

Oh my...
every time I see dog vs. bike in the Vs. intro, part of me dies

by Burgundy and Gold on Jul 22, 2007 10:02 AM EDT reply actions  

Johan sounds like he's giving
interviews all the time

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 10:04 AM EDT reply actions  

Rejoining
small group coming back to the favorites.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:06 AM EDT reply actions  

Txurruka may stay away...
EE does have the motivation...

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 10:06 AM EDT reply actions  

Whoa!
Vino 5.30 back already. D-U-N
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:07 AM EDT reply actions  

he went down fighting
left it all on the road yesterday... he's doing a Pantani (vintage 2000?)

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions  

after the tour
he'll retire to his fur-lined pleasure dome in Kazakhstan.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions  

Changing times?
Despite all my carping about the ads, if VS spend the next week promoting the Simpsons movie, I'll be OK with that.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:09 AM EDT reply actions  

Contador gonna fly
Big G working hard

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 10:12 AM EDT reply actions  

I'd be more apt to buy a Saab
if, instead of having 99 ads an hour, they did the "this hour sponsered by Saab" move.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:16 AM EDT reply actions  

Disco on the front
Was that Hincapie? Couldn't tell.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:19 AM EDT reply actions  

headwind climb
maybe no attacks by the GC men til the last km?
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:20 AM EDT reply actions  

Hincapie still setting the pace
Rabo all over the front right behind him. group of about 20 at the front, with Soler looking tough.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:24 AM EDT reply actions  

No attacks?
Pedrhaps, but lots of melting.

Phil guarantees splits tomorrow. I don't... in fact, you can ignore the Podium Cafe tomorrow morning if you want.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:26 AM EDT reply actions  

It's on!
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:27 AM EDT reply actions  

it is pretty windy
I saw that flag standing out there. But it looks like there is at least some shelter from trees for a while.

Thre tree line is way up there near the top, no?

-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:28 AM EDT reply actions  

That's just wrong
I HATE headwinds on climbs.

by johnw on Jul 22, 2007 10:30 AM EDT reply actions  

Rabo back up front
Is the Chicken going to make a statement today?
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:32 AM EDT reply actions  

Rabo seeting the pace
Boogie dancing on the pedals.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:33 AM EDT reply actions  

Steep section there
good to launch an attack if an attack is to be launched.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:33 AM EDT reply actions  

It's Triki
to rock a climb.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:34 AM EDT reply actions  

Colom sails away
for the stage. They'll probably catch him in the last 200 meters or so. Peloton is under 2' back.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:35 AM EDT reply actions  

Contador
right up front behind the Rabos.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:36 AM EDT reply actions  

Kirchen
remains on the periphery.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:36 AM EDT reply actions  

Menchov
and Popo setting the pace.

This might be a good stage for Menchov.

-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:37 AM EDT reply actions  

Valverde
I'm a bit surprised VV is still in there. If he's sick, he should be done by now.

Horner settles back into his pace, as does Mayo.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:37 AM EDT reply actions  

VV hurting
OP with him... time to attack!

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 10:38 AM EDT reply actions  

Zubeldia gone
Where's Astarloza? He's the only orange kit we should care about.

And there he is, with Valverde. So that settles it. Pereiro looks like he's about to fall off his bike.

Yaropop is pulling hard!

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:38 AM EDT reply actions  

Levi in the back
of the main group. Wonder if he can stick? I guess he looks OK.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:39 AM EDT reply actions  

Kloden
at the back of the field. Contador moving up on the side.

Boogie ups the pace. Menchov swings off.

-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:39 AM EDT reply actions  

Sastre?
At the back, looks ok. Soler offering Ras a bottle!!!!!
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:40 AM EDT reply actions  

funny stuff
like the attitude. He's enjoying this, apparently.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions  

Menchov slides back
He did his work. No reason to see things as they aren't. He's a helper now.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:41 AM EDT reply actions  

take the bottle
funniest thing I've seen on this tour...

by JohnSFO on Jul 22, 2007 10:41 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler had just taken that bottle
from a fan on the roadside. Thats why he just poured it on his arms. He didn't take a drink. Then he offered it to Ras.
"The ox is slow but the earth is patient."

by Teel 22 on Jul 22, 2007 10:44 AM EDT up reply actions  

Colom at the front
heads of state catch Barredo.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:42 AM EDT reply actions  

soler and bert
will go

Ras looking around

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 10:43 AM EDT reply actions  

Goodam French TV
my daily rant. Can the director stay on one shot for more than two seconds? I really just care about the main guys, and am occasionally amused by the stage leader. Not every random guy to fall off the pace. And I think I know all I need to about Caisse d'Epargne.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:43 AM EDT reply actions  

Disco moves up
Boogie done, Yaro-Pop doing a hard tempo. Contador looks itchy, though I'm not sure they can get rid of anyone.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:44 AM EDT reply actions  

Klodi yoyo
classic Klodi style. That must hurt.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:45 AM EDT reply actions  

Klodi...
barely, barely on the group.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:45 AM EDT reply actions  

Klodi drops
so now Kashechkin is the captain?
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:46 AM EDT reply actions  

Kloden fights back again!
ugh. He does this on every climb
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:46 AM EDT reply actions  

Nope
Klodi back. Oy. this doens't look fun.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:47 AM EDT reply actions  

Contador in trouble
Sastre too.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:47 AM EDT reply actions  

Nope
they clawed back. Popo slowed, I'm sure, what with that little radio in his ear.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions  

Sastre gets back on
Kloden still dragging his ass back to the group.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:47 AM EDT reply actions  

Klodi really dropping now
I think he's on his pace at this point.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:49 AM EDT reply actions  

If nobody attacks
then Kloden will probably stay within 30 seconds, and very little will have been accomplished today, besides eliminating a few longshots.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:51 AM EDT reply actions  

Levi accelerates!
Gave it a shot, but everyone marked him. Contador now!!
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:52 AM EDT reply actions  

Contador attacking
Sastre stays with him, Ras looks easy. Levi slipped away.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:52 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler pacing Levi
back up to the leaders. Contador weaving across the road. Ras is attacking. Contador is with him. Cattle chasing. Soler looks tired. Levi chasing. Sastre with Levi.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:52 AM EDT reply actions  

Ras, Cadel, Contador
are the heads of state. Levi, Sastre, and Soler pacing back up.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:53 AM EDT reply actions  

Chicken
with only Contador and Evans. Sastre and Levi stalking, and they get back on. Soler too.

Rasmussen is the aggressor!

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:54 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler giving Ras some trash talk
Kash and Klodi together riding up on their own pace
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:55 AM EDT reply actions  

6.5 km left
So there's some serious racing to be done.

Levi is gonna pass Kloden perhaps.

And now Soler goes! surprising. Nobody cares.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:55 AM EDT reply actions  

Chicken follow
Evans and Contador are with him. Levi and Sastre are pacing back.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:55 AM EDT reply actions  

Ras again!!
On a hellish switchback. Levi and Sastre consistently miss the attack, then catch when it slows.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:56 AM EDT reply actions  

altogether again
Sastre is just riding his own pace. The attacks are not sticking.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:56 AM EDT reply actions  

Flare goes again
Bert goes again

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 10:57 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler again!
This one looks like it will go, Contador follows, Levi just riding his own pace. Sastre follows.

Ras counters!

-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:57 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler says
shoe boxes dumb, coffee better

by Scott. on Jul 22, 2007 10:57 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler cracked
He is riding his own pace.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:57 AM EDT reply actions  

soler gets away
Contador tries to accelerate, and breaks Levi.

Ras now! Contador and Evans stick to him.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:57 AM EDT reply actions  

Contador attacks on the steeep
that one might stick. Soler marking the chicken. everyone follows the chicken. Levi stuck riding his own pace.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 10:58 AM EDT reply actions  

Accountant!!
And they let him go... just games? or is he stronger??

Ras lifts the pace. LL was back, but again can't accelerate.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:58 AM EDT reply actions  

This time
I think it's gonna stick. Contador alone but Rasmussen coming up.

Evans sinks back to Levi and sastre.

Chicken catches Contador.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 10:59 AM EDT reply actions  

dang
this is good shit!

by JohnSFO on Jul 22, 2007 11:00 AM EDT reply actions  

What a battle!
And still 5km left. Very, very aggressive riding today. Cycling gods pleased...
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:01 AM EDT reply actions  

Contador riding the chicken
still 5 km to go. Evans pacing the others back, about 30 seconds behind already.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:01 AM EDT reply actions  

Four chasers together
Evans, Levi, Soler, Sastre.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:01 AM EDT reply actions  

Sastre comes
around Levi and Evans. They will get back to the chicken. Evans is toast.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:02 AM EDT reply actions  

Evans losing it
They've dumped him from the chase. He's drained his tankard of courage, alas.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:02 AM EDT reply actions  

The catch
 Colom finished.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:03 AM EDT reply actions  

No time
It needed to happen before the last climb.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions  

the RAS
can't cover everyone

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 11:04 AM EDT reply actions  

Sastre says
to Levi, "come on, bitch!"
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:04 AM EDT reply actions  

Sastre pissed
telling Levi to chase, but unfortunately he's not gonna track down his teammate.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:04 AM EDT reply actions  

Colom digs into his
shaving bag of endurance and latches on.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:05 AM EDT reply actions  

Does Ras speak spanish?
"The ox is slow but the earth is patient."

by Teel 22 on Jul 22, 2007 11:05 AM EDT reply actions  

Ras attacks
but contador follows with no problem.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:07 AM EDT reply actions  

Evans
at 0.45, not losing the Tour today. But at this pace, he'll need a cracking TT.

Bonus at the end will matter. Surely Contador will get it, if they're equally strong.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:07 AM EDT reply actions  

Will there be any legs left for
tomorrow?
"The ox is slow but the earth is patient."

by Teel 22 on Jul 22, 2007 11:07 AM EDT reply actions  

Games
btw two leaders. They don't look like friends.
HUGE crowds.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:09 AM EDT reply actions  

Cadel back with Kloden!
massive slabs of time slipping away.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:09 AM EDT reply actions  

2km
Contador should wheel suck, no way can Ras come around him in the end.

In the barriers now. Ras: come through! Contador: how stupid do you think I am?

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:10 AM EDT reply actions  

Sastre and Levi
in the barriers now too. Not losing too much. Levi is a survivor, today and overall.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:10 AM EDT reply actions  

Contador to attack
in 3... 2...
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:11 AM EDT reply actions  

Under the kite
Still marking each other. Ras stuck ont he front, as he must.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:12 AM EDT reply actions  

Contador can wait
for the line. He's gonna win, of course.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:12 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler flying up though!
He might catch them as they play games for the "sprint"
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:12 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler at .20
Levi maybe .25
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:12 AM EDT reply actions  

Disco
playing a very patient game of chess in this Tour.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:13 AM EDT reply actions  

Yes they are
Lot's of climbing to come... and they have the best looking team left

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 11:19 AM EDT up reply actions  

Ras attacks
Contador right on him. Starts to come around, zips up the jersey, and rolls home first.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:14 AM EDT reply actions  

Ras hangs tough
tightens his claws on yellow.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:14 AM EDT reply actions  

Soler 3rd
Levi coming up! He's passed Sastre. They're at maybe 40 seconds.

Sastre another 10 seconds at .53

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:15 AM EDT reply actions  

Klodi and Evans
2'?

1.52. Kash later, about to fall over.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:16 AM EDT reply actions  

Evans and Kloden
1:52 Colom waits for Kash and paces him to the finish.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:16 AM EDT reply actions  

Yaro-pop now!
Amazing. 3.05, comes in with Boogerd. Both of those guys sacrificed a lot.

Caisse d'Epargne boys in now, 3.45.

Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:17 AM EDT reply actions  

Damn, that Soler
is an impressive Columbian import.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:19 AM EDT reply actions  

Excellent stage!!
Probably the best one yet. No pussyfooting around today. I think tomorrow's stage must be pretty lowly regarded by comparison for everyone to play their aces today. Or maybe there's just more to be gained on the heels of the time trial.
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:20 AM EDT reply actions  

Rabos finished strong, too
not many CSC jerseys up there.

Rabo and Disco are the powerhouses.

-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:21 AM EDT reply actions  

Thanks all!
Kids beckoning. Can someone please post the final stage and GC results? Ciao!
Got a problem? Va fa Napoli!

by Chris Fontecchio on Jul 22, 2007 11:22 AM EDT reply actions  

Climbers
suceeded in attacking the tt contenders.  2 more mtn stages, so it's far from over.

by paolo on Jul 22, 2007 11:23 AM EDT reply actions  

I picked Ras on my VDS
for cheap KOM points and a stage win. Very surprising.
-K-

by KevinK on Jul 22, 2007 11:23 AM EDT reply actions  

from cn
       
94th Tour de France - ProT
France, July 7-29, 2007

Complete    Latest    Stage Profile    Live Rider Data and Positioning brought to you by &
Stage 14 - Sunday, July 22: Mazamet - Plateau-de-Beille, 197km

Live commentary by Shane Stokes and Bjorn Haake

17:16 CEST  
Kloden and Evans are next. They finish 1'52" behind Contador and Rasmussen. Colom is waiting for Kashechkin, and the two come in together 2'23" down.

17:17 CEST  
Popovych, Boogerd and, we think, Astarloza are next in.

17:18 CEST  
John Gadret finishes now as first Frenchman, 4'47 back.

17:20 CEST  
So Rasmussen and Contador have marked themselves out as the big riders for the GC; the Astana challenge appears to have dissolved today. Vinokourov is certainly gone, and it will be hard for Kloden and Kashechkin to come back.

17:22 CEST  
Contador is 2'23 back while Evans is 3'04 down. He needs to improve tomorrow if he is to challenge for the final yellow jersey. He should fare better than the other two in the final time trial, but has to get time back before then. Otherwise he's looking at a podium place at best.

17:23 CEST  
What an eventful stage! Many dreams died today - some big names really blew up. Moreau, Vinokourov and Valverde stand out, but others also suffered and fell back.
# # # # Alberto Carlos Sastre (Team CSC) Cadel Evans (Predictor-Lotto), Andreas Klöden (Astana), Andrey Kashechkin (Astana) at 1.18 Alejandro Valverde (Caisse d'Epargne), Oscar Pereiro (Caisse d'Epargne), David Arroyo (Caisse d'Epargne) at 2.37 Gruppetto at 7.04 -->
Provisional standings at Finish

1 Alberto Contador (Spa) Discovery Channel
2 Michael Rasmussen (Den) Rabobank
3 Mauricio Soler (Col) Barloworld                     0.36
4 Levi Leipheimer (USA) Discovery Channel             0.38
5 Carlos Sastre (Spa) Team CSC                        0.52
6 Andreas Klöden (Ger) Astana                         1.52
7 Cadel Evans (Aus) Predictor-Lotto
8 Antonio Colom (Spa) Astana                          2.23
9 Andrey Kashechkin (Kaz) Astana
10 Yaroslav Popovych (Ukr) Discovery Channel          3.06

General classification

1 Michael Rasmussen (Den) Rabobank
2 Alberto Contador (Spa) Discovery Channel            2.23
3 Cadel Evans (Aus) Predictor-Lotto                   3.04
4 Levi Leipheimer (USA) Discovery Channel             4.25
5 Andreas Klöden (Ger) Astana                         4.38
6 Carlos Sastre (Spa) Team CSC                        5.50
7 Andrey Kashechkin (Kaz) Astana                      6.58
8 Mikel Astarloza (Spa) Euskaltel-Euskadi
9 Alejandro Valverde (Spa) Caisse d'Epargne
10 Yaroslav Popovych (Ukr) Discovery Channel

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 11:27 AM EDT reply actions  

OOPS!
Sorry plz edit chris.

by mobilegoat on Jul 22, 2007 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions  

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