Colombia Coldeportes didn’t have luck on their side on Sunday February 26th, 2012, when they lined-up for 66th GP Città di Lugano: the riders did their best in the set-up of the Swiss semi-classic race, but mishap ruled Fabio Duarte and Esteban Chaves out of contention for a good result in a finale that could definitely suit their characteristics.

In the end, it was Eros Capecchi (Liquigas) to get to the line with raised arms, leaving the frontrunners’ group and delivering a solo win after 176 km. Damiano Cunego (Lampre) and Enrico Battaglin (Colnago-CSF) rounded out an all-Italian podium.  Jarlinson Pantano was the first Colombia Coldeportes’ rider to the line, finishing 32th, 40 seconds behind Capecchi.

The race came to life in the finale, after the day’s breakaway was reeled on the final ascent to the Albonago climb – main difficulty of the circuit the riders had to tackle 5 times. Liquigas played it hard on the last climb, but the decisive move started on the way down: Eros Capecchi attacked from the group with 4 km to go, managing to create a 10” margin on the peloton. Michele Scarponi (Lampre) tried to get back on his wake, but slipped down in the same point where Fabio Duarte has crashed two laps earlier. Capecchi held on to his slight advantage up to the finishing line, where Lampre could get some consolation with Cunego’s second place.

“Today things didn’t turn out the right way – Sports Director Oscar Pellicioli admitted – we came here with great motivation, but couldn’t express our full potential due to some episodes. Jeffry Romero suffered a puncture in the early go, Fabio Duarte had some little mechanical issues and then crashed at km 105, where he quit the race. Last but not least, on the final ascent, Agnoli crashed right in front of Chaves, who didn’t have the time to dribble him. That’s a real shame, as he was riding in the front group.”

“Such episodes are integral part of cycling – Pellicioli stated – and can well decide a race like today’s. Of course we are disappointed for losing a chance, but we can’t keep dwelling on it, and must look for the silver lining. Fabio and Esteban both hit the ground, but didn’t report any serious injury. Fabio had very good feelings during today’s race, and was confident in his chances to get a good results, and that’s why he is so positive looking ahead to the next fixtures. Let’s just hope for more luck in the future!”

Photo: Jarlinson Pantano was the best Team’s rider to the line

Click here for the race results!