RUTA DEL SOL - Stage 2

Stage 2 was the longest stage of the race, but at least it featured the least amount of climbing. We knew from the start that this would spark some ambition and desperation for anyone who wasn't a pure mountain goat or on a team with strict duties for a leader.

The break went a little quicker than we expected but packed a few of the stronger teams. Astana took up the pacemaking, and we jockeyed in behind them anticipating some wind nervousness that eventually would heat up the later parts of the race.

Fortunately, we had our young engine room of Eddy and Alex rolling in the wind and keeping us upfront. We had a few “calm” moments during the mid-portion of the stage, and the sunshine was a nice hello.

I talked a little with my old BMC teammate Damiano Caruso about being a dad and how his winter went. New respect for all dads out there!

Even this “flatter” day packed a punch with a 10-kilometer climb topping out just 12 km from the finish and then another hilltop Andalucia village with an uphill sprint for the final 1.5 km.

We made it over the 10-km climb in good position with Jack, but the regrouping and swarm after had us a little disorganized. I finally linked up with Jack about 5 km to go as we began the high-speed descent over a narrow bridge and the final uphill punch. I annoyed a few of the Movistar guys in the process but dropped off Jack in the top few wheels going into the last uphill section, and the Zeits took over guiding him to a strong fifth place on the stage.

More mountains tomorrow! It's anyone's guess how my legs and body will pull up after two solid days. So far I'm pleased with how I’m feeling and how we are operating as a team.

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