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A new start: The Tom Danielson diary 2005
After his ill-fated stint with Fassa Bortolo in 2004, likable American climbing specialist Tom Danielson looks to have found a more conducive home for 2005 with Lance Armstrong's Discovery Channel team. Follow his diary on Cyclingnews as he rides alongside the Boss as part of Discovery's ProTour arsenal.
Vuelta al Pais Vasco, Stage 1 - April 4: Zarautz - Zarautz, 133 km
Flat at Pais Vasco
Hey Cyclingnews readers! Just checking in one stage into Vuelta al Pais Vasco. Today was a stage of just 130km, but being the first, it was quite nervous and fast-paced. It was on a circuit filled with climbs, corners, and cars. It was quite exciting and a very good learning experience.
However, the finish didn't work out so good for me. I flatted, or realized that my rear tire had no air in it 500 meters into the final climb of 3km. With Johan encouraging us to start the climb in the front and ride strong up it, I didn't even notice the flat while fighting for position.
Johan is a great motivator! With Johan it is kinda like racing with a GPS satellite that shows you what is coming ahead, what you need to do, and how to do it. So, I realized the flat tired, but we were 8 km from the finish and I panicked. I don't know what I was thinking, but I decided to ride up the climb with the flat tire. I went over in the front group, but unfortunately the descent was too twisty and I was sliding out all over the place. So, I opted for the new wheel instead of a new body. It took awhile to get a neutral wheel and get going, but that's just how it goes. Just another learning experience.
Enough on the negative, the positive was the team all looked great. I am very happy here with these guys, they all are awesome! Back in the US my wife Kristin is recovering from being sick so I am bummed I am not there to take care of her, but I will see her soon in Georgia.
Well, I better get ready for tomorrow, see you out there.
Tom