The Giro!!!
Part 2
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| Cheating |
Just over half way through this year's Giro and there has been non stop action. So, how's it shaking out for our Wiskota riders and what's left to come.
The Favorites: Billed as the battle of the four tenors, Contador, Aru, Porte and Uran, with a supporting cast of several outside contendors, the predictors have not been far off. The outsiders are way outside and the best of the rest, Pozzovivo, has gone home early. Making Damiono "The little Prince" Cunego Greg's highest placed rider in 12th place. However, with every stage something unexpected seems to shake up the GC standings. Uran was the first to be written off, now he's back in the mix. Porte looked super strong and maybe even the favorite with the long TT looming, now he's 5 minutes back. And it seemed like Aru could never gain anything on Contador, but now he's in pink.
The Sprints: Every sprint stage has been different. No single sprinter has put his stamp on this race. That's probably why Nicoala Boem(?) leads the points classification. This competition is wide open. The puncheurs have had there days (Mathews, Ullisi and JillBear) as well as a few breakaways.
The Mountains: Inxtausti has the early lead and is a very capable climber. However, the Giro is always backloaded with climbs and this is far from over. Betancur vows to put up a fight, but seriously that would be a lot of work and I mean, come on.
It should be a good weekend to watch, well, Sunday should be good. And don't forget the US championships are on Memorial Day. Last year they had a free live stream. So here it is in brief, your weekend Giro guide.
The Favorites: Billed as the battle of the four tenors, Contador, Aru, Porte and Uran, with a supporting cast of several outside contendors, the predictors have not been far off. The outsiders are way outside and the best of the rest, Pozzovivo, has gone home early. Making Damiono "The little Prince" Cunego Greg's highest placed rider in 12th place. However, with every stage something unexpected seems to shake up the GC standings. Uran was the first to be written off, now he's back in the mix. Porte looked super strong and maybe even the favorite with the long TT looming, now he's 5 minutes back. And it seemed like Aru could never gain anything on Contador, but now he's in pink.
The Sprints: Every sprint stage has been different. No single sprinter has put his stamp on this race. That's probably why Nicoala Boem(?) leads the points classification. This competition is wide open. The puncheurs have had there days (Mathews, Ullisi and JillBear) as well as a few breakaways.
The Mountains: Inxtausti has the early lead and is a very capable climber. However, the Giro is always backloaded with climbs and this is far from over. Betancur vows to put up a fight, but seriously that would be a lot of work and I mean, come on.
It should be a good weekend to watch, well, Sunday should be good. And don't forget the US championships are on Memorial Day. Last year they had a free live stream. So here it is in brief, your weekend Giro guide.
Stage 14, Saturday 5/23:
**
Why to watch: I am loath to include a time trial stage but this one could decide the Giro.
Who to watch: With the big name TT'ers skipping the Giro we have to look to the GC guys for a good result. I expect Porte and Uran to do the best, but Contador shouldn't be too far off. The real question is how much time does Aru lose. Sneaky pick, Kyrienka.
How to watch: This is Prosecco country and sparkling bevvie goes well with race day. This region is known for their wild asparagus dishes, but for my money its all about the italian meats: soppressa, salami, ossocollo and pancetta.
Stage 15, Sunday 5/24:
****
Why to watch: The mountains start coming fast and furious now. This may not be the toughest climb of the Giro but after a TT you never know how a rider's body will react.Who to watch: Look for the KOM contenders to ride an easy TT as they look to snatch points today on the first 2 mountains. Will Porte take TT time and then attack Sunday? Epic massive? At 5 minutes behind probably not. Uran on the other hand... But as with all mountain top finishes, Contador is the favorite.
How to watch: Keep the Cappuccino hot cause today its about the sweets. Cherries and apple strudel maybe a little carrot cake. If you are feeling more adventurous you could try your hand at torta di fregoletti a walnut and almond pie of sorts.
No mention of Mortilrolo? Did you Richie Porte this blog?
ReplyDeleteI tottaly Richie Portaged this preview. There was supposed to be one more installment, but like Richie, I thought it would be easier to just quit.
ReplyDelete