At the first rest day of the Vuelta a Espana, Ivan Basso looks satisfied for what he achieved as well as well-aware that the hardest part of the race is yet to come. After ten stages the leader of Cannondale Pro Cycling in Spain is placed 7th in general classification (at 2’20” from Horner, who holds “la roja”) and always on fire on the mountain stages.
“Yes, I’m satisfied for what I did until today” said Basso. “Be always in the first positions in the hardest stages it’s an important boost of confidence for me. It’s something that helps me to look to next stages with serenity. What is scheduled for the next days it will be really hard. The first ten stages was hard too, of course, but next weekend, with the three days on the Pyrenees, will mark a division among the riders who are aiming high for the GC. The positions will be well-defined. Until that day my personal ambitions won’t change”.
“In the first part of this Vuelta, only the opening team time trial race has been a clashing day. It was not the real value of this team and during the days after we were able to show. We did all that we wanted and planned. I feel a motivated and united group around me, ready to support and to work for the common cause”.
“Tomorrow we’ll restart with an important test, the individual time trial. This morning I had a recon on the route: nice, interesting and suited for my characteristics. Of course, only the time I’ll be able to achieve at the finish will count, but I’m confided to do a good race” added Basso.
Ron Callahan is the chief cook and bottlewasher at Bike World News, doing everything from website design to bike reviews.