Hesjedal pushing his way to the Tour's top

Ryder Hesjedal escape group, Tour de France 2010, stage 12

Canadian Ryder Hesjedal started the Tour de France as Christian Vande Velde's mountain man, but now finds himself battling for a top ten overall while Vande Velde watches from home.

Vande Velde abandoned the Tour de France on the third day to Spa due to a crash and two broken ribs. Hesjedal quickly took up responsibility of the team's overall contender, with Vande Velde calling frequently with advice.

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