The CLIMB almost FINISHED POGACAR and VINGEGAARD – COL DE SPANDELLES with Off The Marc!
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Video The CLIMB almost FINISHED POGACAR and VINGEGAARD – COL DE SPANDELLES with Off The Marc !
Video The CLIMB almost FINISHED POGACAR and VINGEGAARD – COL DE SPANDELLES with Marc Figueras Grabulosa from Off The Marc YouTube Channel.
The CLIMB almost FINISHED POGACAR and VINGEGAARD – COL DE SPANDELLES
The Tour de France is one of the most iconic cycling events in the world, and in 2022, it provided some of the most thrilling and heart-stopping moments. One of these moments occurred during the climb of Col d’Espandels, where Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard engaged in a battle that nearly changed the outcome of the entire race. Let’s take a closer look at this legendary climb and the events that unfolded.
The Numbers Speaks for Itself
The climb of Col d’Espandels is not for the faint-hearted. With a length of 10.3 kilometers, an average gradient of 8.3%, and a maximum gradient of 9.7%, it posed a formidable challenge to the cyclists. It was the penultimate climb of stage 18 of the Tour de France, and both Pogacar and Vingegaard were acutely aware that this was a make-or-break moment in the race. Pogacar needed to recover a two-minute gap between him and Vingegaard, and he knew that he had to make a decisive move on this climb to have a chance at winning the race.
The Epic Battle Unfolds
As the cyclists approached the climb, the tension was palpable. Pogacar wasted no time and launched a series of attacks, trying to put the pressure on Vingegaard. The white jersey, symbolizing the best young cyclist, went all out in a long-range effort to close the gap and reclaim the yellow jersey. It was an intense and breathtaking display of strength and determination as both cyclists vied for the top spot. In the end, it was Vingegaard who managed to close the gap and prevent Pogacar from gaining a significant advantage.
The Perilous Descent
As the cyclists reached the top of Col d’Espandels, the spectacle was breathtaking with the sunshine and amazing views. However, the real challenge lay in the treacherous downhill. Pogacar knew that if he couldn’t beat Vingegaard on the way up, he had to try on the way down. The narrow and twisty descent posed a significant risk, and it was on this dangerous stretch of road that nearly changed the outcome of the race. As Vingegaard pushed the limits, he made a critical error, attempting to pedal too early in a lean and nearly crashing. It was a heart-stopping moment, but he managed to regain control and avert disaster.
The Game-Changer
However, the drama wasn’t over yet. Just as Vingegaard narrowly escaped a crash, Pogacar wasn’t so fortunate. As he tried to put on the pressure, he lost control and crashed, narrowly avoiding disaster. It was a game-changer and a pivotal moment in the race. Pogacar, realizing the risks, eased off the pressure and reevaluated his approach as he still had one more climb to tackle. This crash could have ended his hopes of victory, but it also pushed him to reassess his strategy and approach the final stages of the race with caution and determination.
Epilogue: A Sporting Display
The climb of Col d’Espandels will forever be etched in the annals of Tour de France history. It was a stage that showcased the raw intensity and competitive spirit of the sport, but it also demonstrated the mutual respect between the cyclists. Despite the fierce battle on the climb, Pogacar and Vingegaard exchanged a handshake, acknowledging the sporting nature of their duel. It was a testament to the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie that defines the Tour de France.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the climb of Col d’Espandels in the Tour de France 2022 was a defining moment in the race. It was a stage that tested the limits of the cyclists, pushing them to their breaking point. The dramatic battle between Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard showcased the true spirit of competitive cycling, but it also highlighted the mutual respect and sportsmanship that underpins the sport. As the cyclists navigated the treacherous climb and perilous descent, they demonstrated resilience, determination, and the ability to overcome adversity. The climb of Col d’Espandels will forever be remembered as a legendary and awe-inspiring chapter in the history of the Tour de France.
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