In seven days the first stage of this years TdF will have finished and we will be able to see who has become the first wearer of the yellow jersey. This in itself is normally not that an exciting event, but with this years course opting for an open road stage rather than a prologue or time trail, it could produce a very unexpected outcome. What we do know for definate, is that it won't be Tom Boonen winning in a bunch sprint as he is having to take an unexpected holiday this July. I for one will miss what he brings to races and hope to see him back, maybe at the Vuelta (I am not going to comment on the reasons for the early holiday, I think enough has been said, so yes I am sitting on the fence regarding a comment, but I have my thoughts)
Looking at the profile of the stage it could present a great chance for a Frenchman to be wearing the coverted jersey, which I am sure would help in reigniting the French's passion for the biggest cycle race in the world. I think many of the big favourites will be watching each other and keeping their respective powders dry until the first time trail, where I am sure that many riders will be hoping to put some time into their rivals.
On paper there are no clear overall favourites, but I wouldn't be shocked if the overall winning comes from one of the less expected riders. I am hoping that one of these riders, so often the bridesmade may finally be the bride. The viewpoint may be a little idolistic and slightly lost in the clouds, but I would like to see the Teams that have invested in a strong anti doping set ups to perform well and to show that the racing can be clean and exciting.
So to the Etape, for many the highpoint and focus of many lost weekends and trying to explain why Assos shorts are an essential purchase, looms ever closer . Looking at the number of entrants from the UK this year it would seem that both the organisers and the entrants have made the right decison. The organisers in making the route easier compared to recent years, while at the same time not lacking on the epic and inspirational element to the ride. Most years the course offers me no interest, but I now envy those that will tackle the slopes next week. I am sure that the ride will provide epic pub tales well into the dark of winter, fueling talk until the signature is placed on the form for the 09 edition.
Who would I like to win this years race, well that answer is easy in that I would like CYCLING to be the winner no matter which rider climbs the top step in Paris.
