Usually the loyal domestique, Ben King found himself in an unusual situation at the back of a strong Cannondale-Garmin train that controlled the queen stage of the Criterium International. Despite the hard work, however, the American came up short against the top climbers on the final climb and lost the leader's jersey he had taken by winning the opening stage.

"Getting compliments from other riders on how well Cannondale-Garmin controlled the queen stage. It was a special day," he said. "I fought on the final climb but my legs weren't having it. There is still work to do. Thanks for all the support! Blown away."