March 6, 2003 – Javier Pascual Llorente (Kelme) has taken the second stage and the overall lead today on a tough hilltop finish. Here's Michael Barry's (USPS) report:

Today's race was all right although it didn't really end the way we'd planned. From the start we were faced with windy conditions and the bunch was aggressive and the racing had a nervous edge. These conditions can be tiring as we're all constantly trying to keep our leaders out of the wind, near the front in good position, and as fresh as possible.

Everything was fine until the last climb. George (Hincapie) and were riding into the wind protecting Victor (Hugo Pena) as we headed into the climb, but Victor got stuck and stopped behind another rider who had come to a stop on the climb. He wasn't hurt but was simply slowed and lost his rhythm. He is pretty down as it was a lost opportunity and he was feeling pretty good during the stage – it was a good race for him.

There are still some tough days to go including the time trial, so we'll try and bring it around on the days that follow. It is hot and sunny down here which is nice after being in the rain for the last couple of weeks. The countryside is fairly rolling with jagged mountains that stick out of the landscape.

Talk soon,
MiB.

Stage 2: Alguazas – Alto Cresta del Gallo, 153.6 km
1. Javier Pascual Llorente (Spa) Kelme-Costa Blanca
2. Haimar Zubeldia (Spa) Euskaltel-Euskadi
3. Alejandro Valverde (Spa) Kelme-Costa Blanca
4. Jose Ivan Gutierrez (Spa) iBanesto.com
5. Cadel Evans (Aus) Telekom
6. Leonardo Piepoli (Ita) iBanesto.com
7. Wladimir Belli (Ita) Lampre
8. Jose Luis Martinez (Spa) Paternina-Costa Almeria
9. Santiago Blanco (Spa) Colchon Relax-Fuenlabrada
10. Juan Carlos Dominguez (Spa) Phonak Hearing Systems
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95. Michael Barry (Can) US Postal presented by Berry Floor