No success in Tours

Euskaltel failed to light up today's one-day classic Paris-Tours. It was predictable though, as Koldo, the team's bet for the win, had to pull out two days in advance due to tendonitis. None got into the break, and no one went on the attack. But it wasn't that bad. I was actually pleasantly surprised to see Samu covered by all his team-mates at the head of the pack for large portions of the race. The team seemed focused and determined, but the lack of climbs in the route put paid to the team's dreams. Iván impressed by staying close to Samu 'til 5 kilometres were left to race, but Samu never really got the opportunity to get away. He rolled in with the main group in 28th place, while the rest of the guys came in further back. Not a bad display, but not a very good one either. Two races to go now for the team, and both of them should suit Samu to perfection.