USA Pro Challenge 2014 – Stage 5 Preview

By David Hunter

Stage 4 Recap

A massive break of 12 escaped at the start of the stage and it included Jens Voigt. The German, riding in his last race, was always going to give it a try. He went solo with 40km to go and was only caught with 800 metres remaining. It was a tremendous effort for Jens and one the fans will remember. Elia Vivani, made up for a terrible stage 1, by taking the sprint. Kohler of BMC was 2nd and my pick Tvetcov was 3rd.

Stage 5 Woodland Park – Breckenridge 168km

After a very successful stage in 2013, we return to Breckenridge. The climbs of Hossier Pass and Boreas Pass Road are short, but very difficult.

Mathias Frank, won from a breakaway, last year. Behind, it was Peter Sagan who destroyed the peloton, with a big attack. Only Van Garderen was able to follow and they finished 30 seconds ahead of the peloton. Sagan isn’t here, but Tejay is!

Hoosier Pass is 7.6km at 4.4%, so not too hard but the final climb is 2.3km at 6.8% and is destined for a big attack.

The ITT is the next stage, so lots of riders will be wanting to gain a few seconds and be as close to last off, in the ITT, as possible.

The profile of the stage isn’t particularly suited to the breakaway riders, but you never know. Get the right mix of riders and a reluctant peloton, and bingo!

If, as expected, the race comes back together, I like the look of Bartosz Huzarski. The NetApp rider is having a very good race and loves these climbs. I remember him finishing in second place, behind Rodriguez, when the 2012 Giro finished in Assisi. He’s very good with short, steep climbs.

Tejay Van Garderen is the other, obvious pick. Clearly in great form and performed well here, in 2013. It will take a strong ride to beat him.

Danielson, doesn’t seem to be riding as well as he did in Utah. Could this stage suit Alex Howes better?

Majka is still strong, but surely his form has to start sliding….doesn’t it?

Prediction time…

Huzarski for me.

David Hunter

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