The riders were very happy to face the 115 mile day under sunny skies. The course was packed with 5 KOMs and 2 intermediate sprints. Even though the course had snow on the road at the higher elevations, the sunshine kept the temperatures bearable.

Just after the first KOM, an escape of 4 containing Pauwels (Cervelo), McCartney (Saxo Bank), Hamilton and Mancebo (Rock Racing) was able to get off. Because Mancebo’s high overall ranking was a threat to the GC, he did not stay out in front long and was ordered back to allow the break a chance to survive.

The break lasted until 3K to go when Cervelo brought things back together to set up Thor Hushovd. However, a late attack from Horillo (Rabobank) faulted Cervelo’s plans. Columbia then had the opportunity to set up for their sprinter, Mark Cavendish. It was a very close finish with Cavendish taking the win followed by Tom Boonen (Quick Step) and JJ Haedo (Saxo Bank).

Today was once again marred with crashes. Oscar Friere (Rabobank), Kim Kirchen (Columbia), and Scott Nydam (BMC) were all victims.

The BISSELL riders all made it to the finish safely. Frank Pipp came through with a nice sprint finish taking 17th place. Tom and Ben both moved up a spot in the GC to 25th and 26th, respectively.

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Ben in the Peloton		Break just before the catch		Coming into the Clovis