Defending Champion Alberto Contador stunned the contenders as he launched an attack in the last ascent of the Col De Manse even the weather was so dangerous as rains kept pouring down. Contador’s courageous move gained him 1 minute and 6 seconds against his nearest competitor not only this year but for the last three years Andy Schleck.

Contador who planned with precision was so quiet in the Pyrenees but he seized the opportunity that caught Andy Schleck by surprise. Contador moves higher to the standings and regained 18 seconds off the leader Thomas Voeckler. With all the eyes moving from what it seemed to be the end of Contador, he is alive with determination to make a defense on the title with a fight.

Because of the move of Contador, the Schleck brothers were caught in surprise that they couldn’t match the acceleration of Contador. Schlecks brother played defensively in the 16th round that they just minimized the damaged done by Contador. It was the first stage in which the Schlecks couldn’t keep up with the defending champion.

Meanwhile, Voeckler couldn’t be dislodged at all giving up only 18 seconds to Contador. He defends the yellow jersey with great courage. He stood on the wheels of Contador as long as he can. According to many TDF analysts, Voeckler’s form this year was on a high level that he is a legitimate contender. He has the heart to defend the yellow jersey and he is five stages away of winning the tour.

Cadel Evans showed to the field of riders that he is in a good shape by being with Contador. He accelerated with Contador in that six mile climb that he currently in the second place. Evans was also a two time runner up in the Tour de France that he knows how to win. He is a great individual time trial and he can match Contador this time in Tour de France.

The unexpected Tour de France Stage 16 had shaken the overall standings for the first time in many days. Just the time everybody thought he is no longer a contender, Contador rose to the ocassion.

Furthermore, Thor Hushovd captured the stage 16 with his yet another magnificent performance.

Here’s the 2011 Tour de Franc overall standings.

1. VOECKLER Thomas
2. EVANS Cadel + 01′ 45″
3. SCHLECK Frank + 01′ 49″
4. SCHLECK Andy + 03′ 03″
5. SANCHEZ Samuel + 03′ 26″
6. CONTADOR Alberto + 03′ 42″
7. BASSO Ivan + 03′ 49″
8. CUNEGO Damiano + 04′ 01″
9. DANIELSON Tom + 06′ 04″
10. URAN Rigoberto + 07′ 55″