Giro Stage 12: A Puncheur's Stage

First a definition; a puncheur is a cyclist who specializes in rolling terrain and short steep climbs, they usual thrive in the Classics and Monuments of the ProTour calendar.  One of those puncheurs is the former World Champion, Philippe Gilbert (BMC) and today's stage was tailor made for his particular skill set.  His team had spent the day on the front of the peloton keeping the breakaway close enough so their team leader could bounce and claim the victory.  Gilbert did exactly that.  In so doing, he claim the first stage when for BMC in this the 98th edition of the Giro d'Italia.  Obviously, not every team can have a rider winn the Giro, and mathematically, it is not possible for every team to claim a stage win, although that is a minimal goal for every team in the race.  There are 22 teams competing in the race and only 21 stages that they can vie for.  It reminds me of the old birthday party game of musical chairs.  Someone is coming up short.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from the American family run art supply company, Jack Richeson & Company, www.richesonart.com.  This painting is available for purchase through my artist website for the low price of $50 USD, plus shipping (including international shipping).  To buy this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-view/Giro%20d%20Italia/2557704---184157/Painting.html#.VV5Fu_lViko

Giro Stage 12: Checking One More Time

Tanel Kangert (Astana) was given leave from riding for his team leader, Fabio Aru, and went off in search of a stage victory for the boys from Kazakhstan, although Kangert is an Estonian.  Kangert had first chased down the attacking Franco Pellizotti (Androni Giocattoli).  Once under the flame rouge signifying the final kilometer of the stage, he looked over his shoulder to discover that he was dropping the Italian.  Unfortunately, what he couldn't see was the charging peloton that contained both stage hopefuls and GC men who wanted the time bonuses of a podium finish.  With their umbrellas held high, the fans lining the barriers were being treated to some very aggressive racing, while the competitors had no need to fear another wet descent off of this climb.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from the American family run art supply company, Jack Richeson & Company, www.richesonart.com.  This painting is available for purchase through my artist website for the low price of $50 USD, plus shipping (including international shipping).  To buy this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-view/Giro%20d%20Italia/2557684---184157/Painting.html#.VV4-DvlViko