Eisel and Zabel anticipate pain

Française des Jeux rider Bernhard Eisel was prepared for a tough day in the saddle this morning. "It is true that l'Alpe d'Huez is a mythical place but all we know today is that we will be in a lot of pain," he stated. "But if it goes like in the Pyrenees, I won't have any problems to follow."

Six time green jersey winner Erik Zabel was anticipating a hard time. When asked how he felt this morning, the German said, "At the moment I am fine, but later on.."

"I don't know if it is harder being a sprinter on those climbs or going for the victory as a climber. I am no climber."

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