Serpa Victorious in Friuli

What an absolutely awful day for a bike race in Friuli Thursday afternoon. Sub freezing temperatures and snow made for brutal conditions and very unpleasant riding, but Columbian Jose Serpa didn't seem to be bothered much by it when he crossed the line first.

The peloton was quickly splintered apart by riders dropping out due to the rough conditions, and soon the group was down to under 30 riders. Premiere climbers like Cadel Evans (making his season debut), Roman Kreuzinger, Damiano Cunego, and Ivan Basso were quick to hit the team cars.

The San Floriano climb took its toll on the remainder of the field, and soon it was just Serpa, Pavel Brutt, Nicki Sorenson, Simon Spilak, and Maciej Paterski left to duel it out for the win. Serpa and Brutt attacked on the descent, and managed to get just enough of an advantage to be able to decide the race between themselves.

Serpa sat on Brutt's wheel for most of the last km until they were clear of the cobbles on the left side of the road before launching his attack. Brutt really didn't have much of a response and Serpa was able to continue his strong year with a win.

Nicki Sorenson got some separation from Spilak and Paterski and he coasted across the line to cap off the podium.

This win must feel great for Serpa, who had shaved his mustache because he was worried it was bringing him bad luck. I guess the only things he needed for luck today were his legs and his cold weather gear.
Results
1. Jose Serpa
2. Pavel Brutt
3. Nicki Sorenson -5
4. Maciej Paterski -8
5. Simon Spilak -8
6. Grega Bole -25
16. Kasper Klostergaard -1:33
22. Roberto Ferrari -5:10
25. Mauro Santambrogio -5:10