Thor thunders to win stage 13

In a daring and dramatic solo attack, Thor Hushovd of the Garmin-Cervelo team won the 13th stage of the Tour de France. The reigning world champion is having his best Tour in years, having worn the yellow jersey for almost the entire first week. Now with this win, Hushovd achieves his 9th total Tour stage win. And, he's the first world champion since 2002 to win a stage while wearing the rainbow jersey.

Hushovd joined a break of 10 riders and started the Aubisque climb with a 5 minute gap on the peloton. He surged from the break to gain extra time on the climb, but was caught and passed by Jeremy Roy (Francaise des Jeux)and David Moncoutie (cofidis). Roy crested the summit with a 2 minute lead, but Hushovd caught Moncoutie on the descent and the two chased for the final 13km to Lourdes. Hushovd dropped Moncoutie who was unable to pull, then caught and passed Roy with just 2km remaining. Winning alone with arms in the air, it was a masterful show of force from the 33 year old Norwegian.

"It's the most beautiful stage I've won on the Tour de France, for sure," said Hushovd.