Alexander Kolobnev (CSC) has won Stage 3 of Paris-Nice. The Russian dropped three breakaway companions to win the rugged, 215.5-km ride from Limoges to Maurs in 4:59:35. Tom Boonen (Quick Step) outsprinted Daniele Bennati (Lampre) for second at 0:12. Franco Pellizotti (Liquigas) remains the overall leader.

The break of the day began early. At two km, Kolobnev, Heinrich Haussler (Gerolsteiner), and Fabio Baldato (Lampre) escaped, and Nicolas Vogondy (Agritubel) joined them. At 55 km, the quartet led by 8:45.

Liquigas rode tempo for Pellizotti. At 155 km, the escapees led the field by 6:40. Their lead was down to 5:00 at the top of the day?s last climb, the Cote du Fangas (173 km). Quick Step began to chase.

With seven km remaining, Kolobnev attacked his companions. The peloton absorbed the remainder of the break, but Kolobnev stayed away for the win.

In the overall, Pellizotti leads Bennati by 0:02 and David Millar (Saunier Duval) by 0:06. Stage 4 will shake up the standings. The 169.5-km ride from Maurs to Mende will feature four Category 2 ascents and a Category 1 finishing climb. Who will vault into race leadership? To find out, check in at www.roadcycling.com!