May 15, 2006

Bella Vita for Olson

Stage 8, Civitanova Marche - Maielletta/Passo Lanciano, 171K

Olson leads Saunier Charge, photo: Makoto.Ayano/ CyclingTime.com Today's stage to Maielletta had a heavy presence of yellow, when the day's main break (around 20 riders) started at 55K, it was accompanied by Marco Pinotti of Saunier Duval-Prodir, while behind it was the Spanish-Swiss squadra who took the reins of the peloton, driving for Gilberto Simoni. It was a comfortable feeling for Simoni tifosi, the Squadra Gialla were showing themselves to be heavily fortified and organized for il Trentino. Mori, Olson, Piepoli, Lobato and Gómez Gómez were all working like a well-oiled machine for Gibo.

Manuela and Manuele Mori, photo: Makoto.Ayano/ CyclingTime.com Before the stage BiciRace.com had a chance to speak with Pinotti about l'Americano, Aaron Olson. "He is racing smart and getting his sleep at night," said the Italian. "I think that he is getting over his jet-lag, which he had when he first started the Giro in Belgium. You know he started the Giro after arriving from the USA only five days before."

Podium Girl Manuela Rides Scott CR1, photo: Makoto.Ayano/ CyclingTime.com That was a long ride for Olson in the stage to Saltara, stage 6? "Yes, I think it might have been his longest day in the saddle. Compare that to our teammate, Leonardo [Piepoli], who said that he did around 25 seven-hour training rides in before arriving at the Giro!"

"Aaron is enjoying the race," finished Pinotti. "Everyday he wakes up and says 'Bella vita' and 'Bella Italia!'"

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