Sastre Wins 17th and Toughest Tour Stage

ALPE D'HUEZ, France (AP) - July 23, 2008 Sastre took the jersey by speeding ahead of the main title contenders Wednesday in the final ascent of the 130.8-mile ride from Embrun to L'Alpe d'Huez (ahlp doo-EHZ').

The stage was the last of three in the Alps. Riders will face a time trial Saturday that's likely to determine the winner.

Cadel Evans (kuh-DEL') of Australia didn't lose significant time. He remains a favorite to win the Tour, barring a crash or other mishap, because he is the best time-trial cyclist among the remaining contenders.