Juan Mauricio Soler: A Columbian in France, Part II

Soler is known for creeping over his bike as he climbs, earning him the nickname "The Spider"

Juan Mauricio Soler came out of nowhere last year in the Tour de France, and took the polka dot climber's jersey after spectacular attacks in the high mountains throughout the three week grand tour. Soler will return to the Tour again in 2008, but no longer will he be considered an underdog. This time around, "The Spider" will have to win from the front of the group, and will have to initiate the mountain attacks. Whether he'll be up for the task remains to be seen.

Soler has done very little thus far in 2008. He was at the front for some of the hilly spring classics, and took the start line at the Giro with the intention of testing his form, but had to abandon the race after the 11th stage citing a respiratory problem. He did not garner any significant results during his time at the Giro.

Soler has been out of the spotlight ever since, as he presumably builds his climbing form in the high mountains of Italy in preparation of his KOM defense. How he performs in this year's Tour will indicate whether Soler can be considered a serious threat in big time bicycle races. If he contends again for the KOM, he'll be seen as a consistent "gamer" who can handle the pressure of a huge race. If he falters however, he'll be viewed as nothing more than a one year flash in the pan.