Broken collarbone for Gusev

Vladimir Gusev (Astana) became the latest victim of California's infamous 'Bott's dots' on Stage 6 of the Tour of California. Gusev had gone back to the team car for a last-chance feed with 26 km to go to the finish in Santa Clarita when his front wheel hit one of the raised lane markers, and he lost control of his bike.

Gusev fractured his right collarbone in the resulting crash, and underwent surgery at the Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica to repair the break. The doctors inserted a plate and screws to stabilize the fracture and ensure a quick recovery.

Gusev, one of the team leaders for the classics, is expected to resume training in 10 days, and is hoping to return to competition within a month's time.