The fuggitivi (Italian expression for fugitives or the breakaway group) group of nine riders tested the peloton and also the middle mountains of the Apennines.
Michal Golas was part of the escapees and took advantage and went off to gather mountain points to claim the Maglia Azzurra. On the very technical descent down the Valico La Mola, Golas almost cooked it and looked like running off the course. His daredevil descent riding was something to witness. I'm glad nothing went sideways for him.
Right on time!
Screaming down into the finish.
Photo Bettini
The breakaway group did come back together including two riders that had a chance for the Maglia Rosa; Sandy Casar (FDJ) and Ivan Sanaromita (BMC). But, with 1.5 kms remaining, three times Danish national time trial champion, Lars Bak timed his attack with precision and won his very first Giro stage.
"It wasn't an easy stage. I am not a sprinter, I am not a climber. You have to ride into breakaways and take your chances. I was a little bit back in the group, and when somebody closed down the attack, I went boom - and got 200 then 300 meters before they could react. Luckily the breakaway stayed away to the finish... I am very happy."
The main pack finished 3:48 back with enough time for Purtio to stay in pink, for Lars Bak ...an heroic day's victory.
Full Results.
Stage 12: Seravezza-Sestri Levante 157km
Winner: Lars Bak
Maglia Rosa: Joaquim Rodriquez
Maglia Rosso: Mark Cavendish
Maglia Azzurra: Michal Golas
Maglia Bianca: Damiano Caruso
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