Yah, I’m happy with the way things ended up. Voekler seemed surprised to still have the maillot jaune, but I like that guy. Bastille day, Frenchman in yellow, magnificent finish by all, Contador 4:00 back overall. What’s to hate ;)
Sammy Sanchez, he looked beat after finishing first, but what a ride. Frank sends his message, Basso was looking good man, Cadel was pretty much right there, beautiful mountains, I will sleep well tonight.
There’s a video on the TdF site of an interview with Sanchez after the stage. It is very interesting and also touching. He talks about how he has sacrificed a lot this year for the team and how much it means to him. He has had to spend time away from his family and children but today makes it all worth it. His team doesn’t have a big budget and everyone is Basque but him but today they are happy. He said a win like today makes their entire year.
I am always amazed at all the stories that surface about the various riders and teams in the TdF. Some of these guys live “Hollywood” lives- clubs, girls, etc but a lot live modestly with their families and just work hard. Such a cool sport!