15.07.2005/ Hi there,
First thing we did in the morning was to congratulate 'Schreckus' on his
27th birthday. Indeed, if he had bagged the stage yesterday, would have
given himself the best possible birthday present.

Unfortunately, it didn't work out that way. But I think, he can be content
with his Tour just the same. Both as a rider and a bloke he is a very
valuable part of our team.

On the way to the start today we already got a taste of the high
temperatures that awaited us on the road. 'Vino', who sits opposite me in
the team bus, and I looked at each other and already our thoughts turned
towards tomorrow. The mercury is supposed to hit 39 degrees in the
Pyrenees - something that suits both of us.

Lance seems to have experienced the most difficulties in really hot
weather - like at a 2003 stage. Then the day after, it was ten degrees
cooler - and he was firing in all cylinders again.

Today, it was obvious that it will either going to be a day for the
breakaways or another rchance for the sprinters to shine. It wasn't that
important for us to leave our mark on this stage. We will get our chance
this weekend.

Of course, Valverde's abandon made a special impact. Even though I moved up
one position in the GC, what happened to him, is always sad. He was riding a
strong Tour so far, and he'll be back again.

Before concentrating on tomorrow's stage, the team will certainly celebrate
a little with Schreckus.

Later,

Jan