Vande Velde Before Stage 5 of the 2009 Tour de France

VeloNews' Neal Rogers interviews Christian Vande Velde before Stage 5

Vande Velde Before Stage 5 of the 2009 Tour de France Male: Before the race started, your requirements are little bit of a question mark. We’ve had two time trials in four stages and you’ve been right there in both, can you give us a little status support on what you’re seeing out of your legs. Christian Vande Velde: I’ve been pleasantly surprised to see at least and who knows? I mean it’s only the first two tests like you said have been accomplished and I’ve succeeded my expectations and now we just have to see how I go on the climbs. Male: Better sweet yesterday? I mean obviously the team rode very strong at the same time before you guys come off early and you lose about 18 seconds. Christian Vande Velde: Very, very bittersweet, that’s my exact words and -- so I think my guys are a little bit disappointed but everyone gave their all and -- but we flew though considering the circumstances that were given yesterday and I'm really proud of what we did. Male: I would imagine you can take a little bit of solace in the fact that you guys essentially accomplished with five guys where they stand accomplish with seven. Christian Vande Velde: We weren’t really fast you know. Male: As far as GC, Astana clearly taking control, you saw what happens with guys like Evans and Manchoff and even Sastre yesterday I mean, is it too soon to call this a two horse race? Christian Vande Velde: Yeah I think it’s too early. This last week is going to be nasty and we also just have to go and get through Enduro first and then I think we’ll so to see what really going to happen to this tour. Male: Personal note, we’re coming close to your home and, how long till you see your wife and your daughters? Christian Vande Velde: Hopefully four and a half hours if all goes well. Male: And you’ll get to see them for two nights, three nights? Christian Vande Velde: We’ll see if you’re going to meet us at the -- my oldest daughter loves the bus, she’s going to ride with from prepping our back to Giro. Male: Okay, well thanks for the time. Christian Vande Velde: Alright man.