First big test arrives for Ryder
Sitting third in Tour de France, can Hesjedal handle the attacks of the big dogs on Stage 8?
Today could prove to be the first true test of Ryder Hesjedal’s abilities as a GC man at the Tour de France. The Canadian has moved up to third place, 1:32 behind yellow jersey leader Sylvan Chavenel and seven seconds behind Cadel Evans in second. Michael Barry, working as a domestique for Team Sky in his first Tour, sits 88th.
“I am really pleased with my Tour so far and we will see what (Sunday) brings. For everything we’ve gone through as a team at this Tour, I’m really proud of what we’ve done so far,” Hesjedal said. “We’ll just keep taking it day by day.”
Garmin-Transitions director sportif Matt White said he was happy to see the work being done for Hesjedal Saturday. “It was another good day for the team. Ryder looked strong and produced another good ride, and the rider of the day was Johan van Summeren. He looked after Ryder all day and was there for him in the final. What these boys have done at this Tour continues to impress me.”
Sunday’s stage is a 189 km route from Station des Rousses to Morzine-Avoriaz. It’s expected to be a big test for the top riders in the Tour with the final 50 km heading into the high alps. There are three rated climbs in the final kilometres with the finish line sitting atop the ski station at Avoriaz. Viewers can expect and animated race today with numerous attacks.
“(Sunday’s) a tough day and will be a real test. We’ll see how it goes but whatever happens, we’ll be part of the action,” White said.