|
|
RACE REPORTS: LEVI LEIPHEIMER VICTORIOUS AT CASCADE CYCLING CLASSIC
Road Bike Action
July 14, 2008
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Ten years ago this summer, a USPS rider recovering from cancer won the Cascade Classic. That rider was Lance Armstrong, who the following July, took his first of seven Tour titles. The Cascade Cycling Classic was where a young Leipheimer had his first stage wins in 1996 & 97, so for the reigning USA road champion, the Oregon stage race was a special one to win on Sunday.
"To win the Cascade Cycling Classic is definitely something to be proud of," Leipheimer said post-race. "When I first started out as a pro this race was the thing to do and I'm proud to be on the list of people who have won it, like Lance Armstrong.” What makes Leipheimer’s win special is that he had only one teammate, Chris Horner as support throughout. Horner, who is a three time stage winner in the Cascade Cycling Classic, was happy to support Leipheimer in his win.
Leipheimer grabbed the Cascade lead in the Stage Three ITT and he and Chris Horner defended Levi's lead to the end. "I didn't have to worry because Chris Horner is a master at this," said Leipheimer. "Cycling a team sport. Chris and I have been doing this a long time and we know how to form alliances, which paid off in the end." Cascade Cycling Classic runner up was BMC Racing's Jeff Louder.
Cascade Cycling Classic (July, 9-13th)
Final General Classication
1. Levi Leipheimer (AST)
2. Jeff Louder (BMC) @ 2'35"
3. Darren Lill (BMC) @ 2'38"
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|