Beloki hoping for more in 2006

Given that Joseba Beloki's participation was in doubt up until shortly before this year's race, getting to Paris will be seen as a triumph of sorts. But the rider who finished second in the 2002 Tour and third in both 2000 and 2001 will not be satisfied with his 77th place overall, a full 2 hours 19 minutes and 17 seconds behind current leader Lance Armstrong.

Of course, when you consider the catastrophic injuries he suffered in a crash on the descent of the Cote de Rochette two years ago, his current position is suddenly far less relevant. Before the race Beloki said his goal for the Tour was to "feel good again"; he's unlikely to have that sensation 19 stages into what has been a very tough race, but once he recovers from his exertions this July he should have regained much of his old strength.

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