Alejandro Valverde took his second classic of the season today, winning the Clasica San Sebastian ahead of CSC's Alexander Kolobnev and Gerolsteiner's Davide Rebellin. Defending world Olympic champion Paolo Bettini had a good ride, and finished fourth. In what was an impressive display by the Italians, Franco Pelozotti finished fifth and in doing so made for three Italians in the top five.
With the Olympics only a week away, it is looking like it will be a battle between Spain and Italy for the gold medal. Paolo Bettini has based his entire season on the upcoming Olympic road race and September world championships, and is looking on track for a strong ride in China. He'll be the undisputed team leader for Italy. Valverde meanwhile, will depend on strong support from Carlos Sastre. Clouding the picture for Valverde though is Oscar Freire, who has made it no secret that he hopes to take top honors provinding he has the form.
Other strong candidates for the podium include "Tin Tin" Rebellin, the Luxembourgian trio of the Schleck brothers and Kim Kirchin, and perhaps even the American Christian Vande Velde, who is coming off a superb Tour de France. Depending on the weather, certain riders may have a better chance providing certain conditions exist. If the weather is hot and stuffy, look for the Spaniards to shine, while if it is cooler perhaps the Germans or the Luxembourgians will fare better.
The biggest wild card entered must be the Australian team. Cadel Evans still isn't sure of the condition of his injured knee, and Michael Rogers isn't uch of a one day style rider. Simon Gerrans, Stuey O'Grady and Matt Lloyd however, will form a very nice trio to contest the road race. Gerrans in particular seems suited to the course, and is coming off a great Tour de France. Hopefully, if Evans is in fact injured, one of the the above three will be able to break through for the land down under.
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