Wednesday, April 01, 2009

What's happening at Astana in Lance's absence?

When Zabriskie went on the attack, and it was Contador who reeled him in, towing Leipheimer back into the fight. While Fuji-Servetto’s Cobo won the day, it was a decisive time for Astana. On CyclingNews.com, Contador said, “On the last climb I set a fast pace, so there wouldn't be any attacks. I was attentive to the attacks, but Cobo is no threat. Today was a key day to win the race." - Chris Brewer

While the primary focus of the 24th edition of Castilla y Leon has been the injury Lance Armstrong received during Stage 1, you’ll recall the lead up going in were many folks wondering: could Alberto Contador and Lance Armstrong “prove” their ability to be teammates in a race setting?

From inside the team there has only been one position regarding this: we support our strongest rider in the race. This is nothing new for a Johan Bruyneel lead team. It’s not only how he built his 8-time Tour de France winning teams, but also how he approaches literally every race that he oversees. This goes back to the update to the old adage; it’s not “practice makes perfect” but “perfect practice makes perfect.”

The Astana Cycling Team rides for their strongest rider in the race, something everyone might as well get used to.
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