On one of the toughest finishing climbs of this year's Vuelta a España, Mauro Santambrogio was best for the BMC Racing Team Tuesday at the top of Sierra Nevada.
Encouragement From Evans
Santambrogio finished 35th, 46 seconds behind stage winner Daniel Moreno (Katusha), who outsprinted fellow breakaway companion Chris Sorensen (Saxo Bank-Sungaard) to win the 170.2 kilometer stage. Sylvain Chavanel (Quick Step) became the new race leader. Santambrogio said he received inspiration from a text message from Cadel Evans. The two frequently trained on the punishing climb that stretches for 23 km. "Today was the first day that my legs were good," Santambrogio said. "Cadel gave me some encouragement and I know the Vuelta is a long race. I am taking things day-by-day."
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- Mauro Santambrogio is the best-placed rider from the BMC Racing Team, in 41st place. (©Sirotti, www.sirotti.it)
Vuelta a España, Stage 4: Tough Climb
23. August 2011
Sierra Nevada, Spain