March 23, 2009 – Here’s a brief recap from Team Astana’s web site and a video by Rtve.es of today’s events at Stage 1 from Paredes De Nava to Baltanás, at the Vuelta a Castilla y León, where Astana’s Lance Armstrong (USA) crashed and broke his collar bone – a first for the 7-time Tour de France winner following 17 years as a pro.



Team Astana Recap (brief)
by Cathy Mehl

While local rider Joaquin Sobrino (Burgo Monumental-CyL) was taking the sprint victory in the opening stage of the 24th Vuelta a Castilla y León, the real action was playing out well behind him in the form of one ambulance and one Lance Armstrong. With a peloton in full cry on a narrow road in the farming region of Castilla y León, a clip of wheels sent more than a dozen riders sprawling onto the dirt roadside with most of them getting up and resuming the chase. One notable exception however was Armstrong, clearly recognizable with his yellow and black helmet as he sat in the dirt holding his right wrist, indicating a problem with his shoulder.

Armstrong was transported via ambulance to the hospital where it was confirmed he did suffer a break of the right clavicle. “In 17 years as a pro I have been lucky to avoid one of the most common cycling injuries. The crash has put my upcoming calendar in jeopardy but the most important thing for me right now is to get back home and rest up and begin my rehab”, said Armstrong.

All Team Astana riders, staff and fans send get well wishes and quick healing mojo to Lance.

Full recap and additional comments from Armstrong from the Hospital Clínico Universitario of Valladolid here.