Let the celebrations begin! This is the traditional ride into Paris with the final race on the Champs-Elysees which has taken place every year since 1975. They take it easy, catch up with other riders, sip champagne, pose for photos. Then the peleton will get down to business ramp up the pace and conduct what is basically a criterium race on the “world’s most beautiful avenue”. 8 laps with intermediate sprints for points on the 2nd and 4th laps and then the big prize for sprinters is at the finish, winning on the Champs-Élysées is a distinguished achievement.
Look at some of the names that have won here.
- Hinault (x2)
- LeMond
- Abdoujaparov (x2)
- McEwen (x2)
- Boonen
- Hushovd
- Vinokourov
The Paris stage has always meant success for some, relief for many others.
Generally no one attacks on the last day, although Gilberto Simeoni did in 2004 and got reeled in. The 8 lap race at the end is the domain of the sprint train and most are happy to let it go that way - although 2 exceptions do spring to mind. In 1994 Eddy Seigneur attacked the peleton just before the champs - Elysees and won and in 2005 the incomparable Alexandre Vinokourov attacked the same way, won and with the time bonus got himself into 5th place. It can happen but this year Columbia will make sure that Cavendish gets stage win 6. Hushovd can still lose the green jersey, but to get back 25 points Thor is going to have to have his worst day yet. He can finish 5th and will lose only 13 points. Maybe it will happen, stranger things have, but i think all 3 jerseys are sewn up.
What can I say Matt.
ReplyDeleteYour TDF coverage has been simply superb and inspiring.
Hats absolutely off.
To Contador, Andy, Lance, Cavendish and Hushovd as well.
A memorable Tour indeed.
Night on Bald Mountain was something I won't forget in a hurry. I am going up that mountain one day.
In a car.
I have got a few sports fans onto Mattopia - keep the flame burning.
Be interested in your comments of floaties being used in World Championship Swimming......
Cheers...Steve