Iban and the Dauphiné

Every June is brilliant. It`s summer, it`s hot; life`s great. Though, the best part of June is the Dauphiné Libéré. Dauphiné means victories for Iban. Iban has got an amazing track-record in the prestigious French stage-race: 6 stage-victories, one overall and one second place overall. Iban`s palmarès in this race is just incredible. His stage-victory in 2001 marked his break-through on the big stage. His two stage-victories in 2003 were simply breath-taking, even though he didn`t win the race overall. A second was nonetheless impressive. In 2004 he went one better. The overall was won; with two stages to go with it. Lance had no chance to catch Iban whatsoever. Iban was at his peak; but afterwards it all went downwards as we know. Though, his victory on La Toussuire earlier this year marked his revival. His 2006 program does not read the Dauphiné. That`s a shame, as it`s always the place to show everyone who`s the boss. Though, his calendar can still go through some changes as the season hasn`t even started. Let`s hope so.....