Ruta del Sol Final Stage: Phoning It In!

The 61st Ruta del Sol only featured two stages where the sprinters were able to contest the stage. There should have been three, but the first day the peloton was surprised by the late break from Pim Ligthart (Lotto Soudal).  Of the two stages that did have a field sprint, Juan Jose Lobato (Movistar) took both victories with John Degenkolb (Giant Alpecin) managing second each times.  I don't know what is the reason for the odd phone call victory salute of Lobato, but this season I have him take three sprints, and the has made this gesture every time.

The race was the first meeting of Chris Froome (Sky) and Alberto Contador (Tinkoff Saxo), the pair couldn't have been more evenly matched.  Each bested the other on a big mountain top finish and they finished first and second on the General Classification, with Froome winning by two seconds over his main rival for the coming Grand Tours.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  Yes, international shipping is available.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.

If you have enjoyed reading about bike racing with the accompanying artwork please be sure to check out my new book, "Book de Tour - Art of the 101st Tour de France"  The book is available through most online book stores worldwide.  Just Google the title to find where you can purchase the book and avoid international shipping charges.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-view/Other%202015%20Cycling%20Art/2515986---206768/Painting.html#.VOvTsPnF-xU