28-06-2021, 22:12
Ide Schelling did what he needed to do, claiming the sole KOM point to ensure he retains the polka dot jersey for the next 3 days (+300euros per day). More publicity for him and his team, Bora Hansgrohe. I suspect we will not be hearing about his individual exploits again, although there will be chances later on.
What we did hear about today was the number of crashes (too many jangly nerves?) involving many of the top riders - Thomas, Cavendish, Roglic, Lopez, Demare, then Ewan and Sagan within sight of the finish. At this rate the race will become a lottery. The message from the team bosses at the start of every stage will be Keep Out Of Trouble. Which is exactly what Tim Merlier, van der Poel and Alaphilippe did. And with the big crashes involving big riders, there had to be winners taking advantage - riders like Richard Carapaz who definitely has GC ambitions and Wout Van Aert.
Surely tomorrow will be quieter as there will be fewer riders. Caleb Ewan is the latest to go and Geraint Thomas' injury will be assessed tomorrow morning.
What we did hear about today was the number of crashes (too many jangly nerves?) involving many of the top riders - Thomas, Cavendish, Roglic, Lopez, Demare, then Ewan and Sagan within sight of the finish. At this rate the race will become a lottery. The message from the team bosses at the start of every stage will be Keep Out Of Trouble. Which is exactly what Tim Merlier, van der Poel and Alaphilippe did. And with the big crashes involving big riders, there had to be winners taking advantage - riders like Richard Carapaz who definitely has GC ambitions and Wout Van Aert.
Surely tomorrow will be quieter as there will be fewer riders. Caleb Ewan is the latest to go and Geraint Thomas' injury will be assessed tomorrow morning.
Cabbage is still good for you