Vuelta Stage 9

I haven't been paying that much attention to the Vuelta, but it appears Frank Schleck is still in the running, sitting in 13th place overall. It would be nice to see him win a little something this year after pulling out of the TdF. More news here

Also: Jeannie Longo, the 51yo. French evergreen of the cycling world, took the opening stage of the Steamboat Springs stage race in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. I always try to remember what this athlete is capable of in her 51st year whenever I chalk a disappointing ride up to "old age".

Vuelta a Espana...Ole!

This weekend the Vuelta a Espana kicks off in Seville on August 28, to cap the grand tours for the season and there are still quite a few riders out there who are hungry for a little victory. Yes, many of the big winners will be missing and this one is a bit of a consolation prize for those who fared worse or were injured at the Tour or Giro, but there should be some good racing.

Denis Menchov, who has been just out of reach of some glory is due for a victory. The mighty Schlecks are in it. Italy's Vincenzo Nibali, who put on a show during the Giro, will be back at it, as will Spanish favorite, Carlos Sastre. Maybe Christian Vandevelde can also put something together for a return to the peloton.

It should be an interesting race.