2022 Vuelta a Espana Stage 17 | Highlights
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Dropping his head in disbelief, Rigoberto Urán was the first to cross the line on stage 17 of La Vuelta a España. The win not only moves the Colombian into the top ten overall but also sees him join an elite group of racers who have won a stage at all three grand tours.
“It’s beautiful to win in the Vuelta,” says Rigoberto Urán. “I’ve been looking for this for several years because I’d already won at the Tour and the Giro. So as a three-week rider, to win here is very special. It’s not just this year that I was looking for this win, I’ve been looking for it for years, so I’m very happy and I want to thank the team and my family.”
The fight to get into the breakaway was hard and the move of the day took nearly forty kilometers to stick. The breakaway was a strong one, featuring thirteen riders, ranging from classics riders to pure climbers. While the group worked well together throughout the stage, building up a seven minute lead over the bunch behind, the lead up to the final climb of the day – the Monasterio de Tentudía – saw several riders try long range moves.
Rigo was patient and showed his experience. Following wheels and closing gaps, it was clear that the Colombian was on a good day. Once on the Monasterio de Tentudía, Rigo closed several gaps, ultimately passing the last rider with a few hundred meters to go. By the time he crossed the line, a few meters ahead of the next best rider, Rigo had given it his all, dropping his head in disbelief.
This is Rigo’s first grand tour stage win in over five years. Along the way he has had to overcome numerous injuries including a career threatening crash the last time he raced the Vuelta in 2019. This one is a big one for the Colombian and he knows it.
“This win shows that we always have to believe and fight, even if sometimes the results seem far off,” he says. “The important thing is to get up every day and ride with a good attitude, with happiness and with hope.”
Disfruta, campeón.
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