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RACE REPORTS: BRILLIANT CONTADOR WINS ALGARVE TT, TAKES RACE LEAD
Tim Msloney-European Editor
February 21, 2009
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Contador flies to victory in the Tavita TT
(Photo: Roberto Bettini)
With a brilliant effort over Stage 4's 33.7km individual time trial
from Castro Marin to Tavira (ITT), Astana's Alberto Contador not only
took the time test but took command in the 35th edition of the Volta ao
Algarve in Portugal. Contador beat Astana teammate Andreas Klöden and current
world time trial champion Bert Grabsch (Columbia). Contador explained
after his win “I am very happy to win here at in my season debut. I'm sorry I didn't win yesterday for my teammates but at least I could
manage to win a stage today,” Contador said. “I hope my season
continues like this.” Speaking of his TT effort, Contador
explained “It was really hard, up and down all day,” he said. “To
tell the truth, it was too long for so early in the season. Today is
the first step toward the Tour. It’s the first of four races I am going
to do before preparing for July,” Contador said. “So to start with a
victory gives you confidence and it only helps.”
When he was asked about the return of Lance Armstrong, Contador said
“Lance’s return is good for cycling. He’s more than a rider, he’s a big
star. Everyone is talking about cycling and that’s important for the
sport,” he said. “There will be a huge expectations for every race he
starts.” On Sunday, the Volta ao Algarve finished with Stage 5, a
168.6km hilly race from Vila do Bispo to Portimao. The main climb of
the day is the Cat. 2 Alto da Fóia (902m.) the highest summit in the
Algarve with a 60km finish to Portimao.
35th Volta ao Algarve
Portugal, February 18-22, 2009
Saturday, February 21
Stage 4: Castro Marin-Tavira (ITT) / 33.7km
1. Alberto Contador (Spa) Astana 44'5"
2. Sylvain Chavanel (Fra) Quick Step at 33"
3. Andreas Klöden (Ger) Astana at 36"
35th Volta ao Algarve / General Classification Stage 4
1. Alberto Contador (Spa) Astana
2. Sylvain Chavanel (Fra) Quick Step
3. Rubén Plaza (Spa) Liberty Seguros
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