The first part of today’s race is on rolling terrain. After a 3rd category climb the stage explodes at kilometre 155: a two-stage ascent with a 2nd category and a top finish at Aramon Valdelinares (1.975 altimetres). That equals 25 kilometres of climbing interrupted by 5.5 kilometres descent. Is it going to be a day for the break away boys? Or are the GC men taking control? Interesting to see how Valverde – master in stage 6 – will cope with the long closing climb(s).
In last Giro Julián Arredondo (image) made a name for himself by being a prominent attacker in the mountain stages. He took the stage to Refugio Panarotta and was crowned mountain king. Other likely break away boys are Thibaut Pinot and Ryder Hesjedal.
Favourites
Joaquim Rodríguez
Nairo Quintana
Chris Froome
Alberto Contador
Julián Arredondo
Outsiders
Ryder Hesjedal
Alejandro Valverde
Fabio Aru
Thibaut Pinot
Vuelta 2014 stage 9: Images and more
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