Stage three at Tour of Spain, between Cordoba and Almendralejo, distance 220 km.
The race, run under tropical conditions, has been animated by the long break of a trio: David De La Fuente (Saunier Duval-Prodir), Enrico Franzoi (Lampre-Fondital) and Hervé Duclos-Lassalle (Cofidis), who attacked after 10 kilometres, and had up to 8' on the peloton.
The usual scenario followed: the peloton accelerated during the second half of the race, and the leaders were caught with 7 kilometres to go, heralding thus another pack sprint.
The winner was Spain's Francisco José Ventoso (Saunier Duval) followed by Thor Hushovd (Crédit Agricole) and Stuart O'Grady (Team CSC). Robbie finished in 5th position.
The Norwegian Thor Hushovd increases somewhat his leadership, with now 11 seconds on Stuart O'Grady. |