Levi Wins, But Contador Holds On

Leipheimer won the final ITT today, an uphill 17.1 km ride, by 31 seconds over Contador and Valverde. Contador still leads the race by 46 seconds. Impressive. But a chorus of what ifs will no doubt begin making the rounds. What if Levi, who won both ITTs, didn't sacrifice himself for Contador in the high mountains? What if Valverde hadn't had that miserable day? It doesn't really matter in the end, though. Because Alberto Contador will win the 2008 Vuelta, just as he won the Giro. Not a bad year by any estimate. Want more? Head on over to CN and Pez.

Oh, and Klodi's growing a moustache:


Over in the FGBC Pool, Paddy rode Leipheimer's glory to a stage win of his own. 205 points for the new pride of Lethbridge. Matt took second place with 175 points, followed by Dallas, who at 170 points had a third consecutive good day. No big changes on the GC. But Brad edges ever closer to Arlene, and Dallas moves up yet another spot.

Stage 20 Results:

Paddy 205
Matt 175
Dallas 170
Brad 150
Chris 150
Vic 100
Arlene 90
Jonny B 85
Ian 65
Hal 55
David 0


Overall Standings:

Chris 2971
Vic 2436
Arlene 2275
Brad 2138
Paddy 2063
Matt 1899
Jonny B 1816
Dallas 1497
David 1492
Ian 1289
Hal 1209