Iban 15th on stage; 24th overall

Iban is making big strides in the Giro. Today, on the race`s second mountain-top finish, Iban placed an impressive 15th, and advanced to 24th on GC. Iban could be seen riding close to Simoni in the bunch for most of the stage, and when the pack reached the last and deciding 8 km climb, Iban stayed at the very front until fading a little with 2 km to go. Iban looked solid, and will no doubt prove valuable for Simoni in his quest for a third overall win. Iban in the end crossed the line 1:41 back, and as he`s still not close to peaking, we can expect Iban to get better and better as the race progresses. Today`s stage will no doubt have pleased Iban. He tried to get in the break early on, but failed. But even though he spent a lot of energy on that try, he still had enough gas left in the tank to fight with the very best. This stage probably did him the world of good, and it was enjoyable to watch. Look out for him in Briancon, where`s he`s won before. Aupa!