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That was simply amazing! Ulrich gave a great performance but, unfortunately for him, Armstrong was 61 full seconds faster, coming within 1 second of the unofficial record for the ascent of L’Alpe d’Huez set by Il Pirata. Basso was equally amazing in keeping his second overall, especially as Time Trialing has always been his weakness. Even though he was caught by Armstrong, he finished 8th in the stage with a very good time, limiting his losses to Armstrong for the day to 2’23”.
The crowds were better behaved but still absolutely insane. I really think it is a mistake to make L’Alpe d’Huez a time trial, especially with open access like that. Maybe if they barriered the entire climb, but then that would be almost sacreligious for the mountain itself.
And today, 22 Juillet, even moreso. This is so amazing. Hinault could have won 6, and for him to turn the mantle over to Lance today with his comments of “perfect” is just as it should be. Perfect.