Giro Stage 14: Starting His Defense

Fabio Aru (Astana) was the final racer to roll down the start ramp in Treviso.  Due to his Maglia Rosa, he was the last competitor to attack the 59.4 kilometer race of truth.  Today's time trial was the longest in the Giro in nearly a decade and was a combination of a long flat course and a dominantly uphill finish.  Aru is not known for his abilities in the race of truth, but hoped for the 'power of the pink'.  It is well documented that holding the leader's jersey in a Grand Tour enables riders to turn in miraculous rides that far exceed their previous achievements.  Aru was unable to pull out the upset and retain the overall lead, but his ride brought respect to the Maglia Rosa.

Each rider is follow by both a team car and a race official.  Those that are of interest to Italian television are also followed on the ground by a TV Moto and in the air by one of the helicopter mounted cameras.

This is an original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company, www.richesonart.com.  This painting is available for purchase through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  To buy this particular painting for only $50 USD, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  International shipping is available.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-view/Giro%20d%20Italia/2558892---184157/Painting.html#.VWFyj_lViko