July 14, 2006

Magnificent performance by David de la Fuente!

Magnificent performance by David de la Fuente! The eleventh stage marked the start of the great battle of the 2006 Tour. This is the most testing stage of the Pyrenees, with five very serious ascents, and the leading riders have at last been revealed. The day started with an escape by the highly competitive David de la Fuente and three other riders. De la Fuente was the strongest and rode magnificently. De la Fuente gave his all and demonstrated his iron will. At the end of the stage, he was rewarded with the red polka dot jersey as best climber and won the prize for the best fighter. He mounted the podium for the second time, this time on Spanish soil, and it was a wonderful result for the 25 year-old rider. Behind the escape group was a pack of favorites, with Gilberto Simoni among them. The escapees were caught and although De la Fuente fought to the bitter end, he also dropped behind. In the last section, Rabobank riders tested the others and the favourites were also left behind, including Gilberto, who finished in 16th position. At the finish, Denis Menchov (Rabobank) was the stage winner in front of Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) and Floyd Landis (Phonak) who took the yellow jersey. Mauro Gianetti, manager of the team, had this to say about David de la Fuente: "He is a very gifted rider, an engine of incredible power. What he demonstrated today was magnificent. He will also wear the jersey for the best climber for several days. In addition, this morning I was very happy to confirm his contract for 2007."