Sprinters honing form in Suisse

By Shane Stokes in Nauders

"It was not so bad," said Predictor-Lotto's Fred Rodriguez, speaking after the third stage. "The group rode tempo to the top of the hors category. It got fast as they were trying to chase down a breakaway, and then some wanted to go hard on the last climb. That was it."

He finished 9'24 back, using the stage to build form rather than hammering himself. "Right now, I am basically trying to get fit for the Tour as well as giving Robbie [McEwen] a hand. I will most likely be on the team, barring any sickness."

Saunier Duval – Prodir's sprinter Francisco Ventoso is also getting ready. "I am in this race to build good condition for the Tour," he said. "I am on the team for that."

Ventoso felt that the third stage was very tough. Given the mountainous nature of the country plus the parcours for this year's Tour de Suisse, he said that he's not optimistic that there will be another bunch gallop.

"I don't think there will be another day for a sprint; it's very difficult to see it happening anywhere [before the end of the race]. But perhaps Thursday will be a good day for a break."