This week's Paris-Nice is turning into quite a race. I'd like to see the weather NOT improve and for the tough riders in the forefront. Hardmen like yellow jersey leader, Thor Hushovd (Credit Agricole) and double stage winner, Gert Steegmans (Quick Step) seem immune to the harsh wet conditions. Seems that Hushovd's team was not picked to ride in tomorrow's Tirreno-Adriatico stage race. And, although he seems a little despondent in not riding in Italy, the Norwegian has accepted the yellow jersey in stride. If he does hold on to win Paris-Nice it would be a very good step up to the big one awaiting him. He's set his sights to this month's Milan-San Remo. Even stakes his entire classic season on it. 
Belgian, Steegmans turned into leader for the Boonen-less Quick Step team. While, 'Torpedo Tom' will line up for Tirreno-Adriatico. For the tough Steegmans, he's at home in the wet cold conditions of France, a fish in water.
Because of the extreme wet conditions, many of the main GC men have crashed, not worst for wear, but suffered the bruises of such hardcore racing. One thing's for sure, Hushovd's great conditioning has placed him well in yellow and if he plays his cards right in Milan-San Remo, he has a greater chance in adding to his palmares!
The weather waits for no one: Steegman bracing for the cold. Hushvovd thunders in yellow ... thinking of Italy.
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