Tour of Basque News

Ryder Hesjedal (Garmin-Transitions) had another strong day at the Tour of Basque with a seventh place finish in today’s stage. The fifth and second-last stage was a challenging 170 kilometers from Elbar to Orio, Spain. Hesjedal’s team mate Christian Meier finished today’s stage in 97th position.

Going into Saturday’s final stage, a 22 kilometer individual time trial, Hesjedal sits in 12th in the general classification and Meier sits in 93rd. Meier has won the sprint leader’s jersey.

Meier had this to say after today’s stage:

“Today’s stage was another hard day, they say this is one of the hardest races of the year, the climbs are steep and often and the Ardennes Classics contenders are on top form ahead of next week.”

“Today’s final climb had sections at 28% and the team cars were not allowed to go over, the commissarie’s car tried but was broken down smoking when I came past. The race has been going well for me as I have been able to wear the intermediate sprint jersey all week, after being in the break the first day, and sealed that classification up today.”

“I had lots of great help from my team mates throughout the week and am very grateful for their help. Ryder rode strongly again today and looks to move up some GC spots tomorrow in the final day TT as for me I will try to enjoy wearing the blue for the final stage.”

“Next up for me are the Ardennes Classics, Amstel, Fleche and Liege and then maybe a break for a bit.”