Cycling: Shock win for Piedra in Spain

Antonio Piedra climbed to a surprise win in the 15th stage of the Vuelta a Espana, while Joaquin Rodriguez kept the overall race lead, according to the BBC. Chris Froome endured a tough day and finished behind Rodriguez to slip to fourth in the standings. Alejandro Valverde replaced British rider Froome in third place. “It was a really tough climb. I’m just trying to do as much as I can,” said Team Sky rider Froome, who finished in 23rd place. “I’m suffering in the mountains against the Spanish riders. I’m just trying to stay up there.” Piedra dominated the 186.5-km stage from La Robla to Lagos de Covadonga, claiming the greatest win of his career to date, eclipsing his success in stage five at the Tour of Portugal in 2009. France’s Ruben Perez came second, trailing the Caja Rural rider, with France’s Lloyd Mondory in third.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 4^th, 2012.