EuroPeloton Cycling Awards 2008: Best Grand Tour Performance, Alberto Contador, Giro d'Italia

A shrewd tactical performance at the Giro has earned Contador grand tour rider of the year honors for 2009

Alberto Contador arrived at the start line for the 2008 Giro d'Italia on short notice and on the heels of a relaxing vacation on the beach. When Giro organizers tendered an invite to the Astana team, Johan Bruyneel called on his stage racing ace to lead the team's efforts in Italy. Unsure of his form, Contador raced defensively for the majority of the three week event, and was able to take the overall title despite not winning a single stage.

Contador's feat was an amazing one, especially in the modern era of sport. These days, athletes prepare months in advance for a particular event, leaving nothing to chance in their quest for victory. Contador was not afforded months or even weeks to prepare, but was instead thrust into a grueling three week Tour with little more than his existing natural ability and tactical sense. Watching Contador at the Giro, it was obvious that he was not at full strength, yet he was still able to stave off his competitors to take his first win at the Giro.

Later on the in season at the Vuelta a Espana, Contador provided his tifosi with a more true representation of his skills, as he dominated the field to finish better than 4 minutes ahead of July's Tour de France champion Carlso Sastre. Contador took two stages in Spain, as well as the white jersey of best young rider. But it was his performance in the Giro that was even more impressive, as he won with his heart as well as his legs.

Honorable mention goes to British super sprinter Mark Cavendish. The team Columbia rider took four stages at the Tour de France, and was on his way to winning the green jersey before voluntarily dropping out of the race to prepare for the Olympics. Unfortunately, Cavendish was shut out of the medals in Beijing, and regretted having decided to leave to Tour to prepare for the Olympics. In 2009, his first priority is the green jersey, and he'll be on the short list for grand tour rider of the year honors once again in 2009.