Valverde, Hermans take the spoils, Armstrong returns - Weekend Wrap
(Cyclingnews.com)

Alejandro Valverde and Lance Armstrong on the podiums of races? Don´t worry you´re not having flashback to the mid-2000s but both riders made the headlines this week with Valverde coming out on top in the Ruta del Sol and Armstrong getting the US Postal band back together for a reunion at the 24 Hours of Old Pueblo. There were also wins for the promising Primoz Roglic, while Ben Hermans and Arthur Vichot also took impressive GC titles in Oman and Haut-var, respectively. Ruta del Sol Following an action packed opening three days at the Ruta del Sol, the weekend stages saw Alejandro Valverde successfully defended his one-second lead over Alberto Contador during the final two stages, claiming his 100th professional victory.ADVERTISEMENT Saturday´s stage 4 was one for the sprinters with Bryan Coquard doubling his early-season tally on Spanish soil. The Direct Energie sprinter got the better of Daniel Hoelgaard (FDJ) and Hugo Hofstetter (Cofidis). Sunday´s final stage saw the spoils go to Tim Wellens. The Lotto Soudal rider outfoxed his breakaway companions at the Coín finish with Simon Clarke (Cannondale-Drapac) in second place. Back in the peloton, there was little action with Valverde having a relaxed day despite his slender lead over Contador. When the peloton arrived almost two minutes after the breakaway, Valverde, Contador and third-place finisher Thibaut Pinot (FDJ) were all in the front group to ensure no change to the overall podium. Tour of Oman 24 Hours of Old Pueblo Volta ao Algarve Tour de Haut-var You can read more at Cyclingnews.com