Alberto Contador fighting his way up as he gets ready for the crucial 18th stage
Alberto Contador was pretty impressive with his attack on the descent at the end of stage 17 of 2011 Tour de France. Thomas Voeckler, who is still leading the general classification, lost precious time at the end of stage 17. Samuel Sanchez and Contador
maintained a good lead over the group of overall contenders, but the lead was equalled by Frank Schleck, Andy Schleck and Cadel Evans as they crossed the finish line.
Contador was unsuccessful in making up the time for the final classification, as the cyclists closed up the ten-second lead that Contador and Samuel Sanchez had closed in before crossing the finish line. The Spaniard is positive that he will continue his
hard-work and believes that the effort shall be made every day. He is still making up for the deficit which was caused because of a crash in stage 1.
Alberto exerted a lot of energy in stage 17, just before the big stage from Pinerolo to Galibier Serre-Chevalier, which is extending up to 189 kilometres. Contador is sure that he has not wasted his strength and is hoping to do even better on stage 18.
“The effort is same for everyone” he further added “It wasn’t too risky-the descent was dangerous, but I had everything under control, without pushing my limits.”
Thomas Voeckler who is leading the tour, suffered on stage 17 as he was not very comfortable on the descent and Contador was having a close-eye on that as he said “That’s very good, because he is a great rider who has defended himself in the incredible fashion
in the Pyrenees and any time that he is losing is important.”
Contador thinks that stage 18 on Thursday will be the most important stage on this Tour as it is a tough stage and he also added that wind will play its part on Galibier at the next stage.
Edvald Boasson Hagen completed his second win of this year’s Tour de France as he won stage 17 and also win the young riders classification.
Contador is at number 6 in general classification as is fighting his way up to the top in remaining as the Tour is progressing towards the decisive stages.
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