I run the campy veloce brifters and really love them. They are the most comfortable brifters on the hoods that I have ridden. Toss those together with an inexpensive shimano 8 speed cassette and a 105 or ultegra RD (often CL sourced) and you can build up on the cheap and give away nothing to the competition (especially if you run a triple up front). 8 speed chains are inexpensive too. I haven't found the campy brifters any less of a PITA to install and tweak than shimano, and find it's nice that they are usually purchased with the cables included.

That cannondale is very very nice (well maybe except for the stem). Nice look with the blue and yellow.