Dauphine Final Stage: Fighting All the Way - and the final painting of the race

With Alberto Contador still climbing behind them, none of those ahead could know what their final position would be on the podium.  Without knowing, there were no fist pumps, no hands in the air, just men driving themselves as hard as they possibly could to get across the finishing line as quickly as they could.  It wasn't until just over a minute later that Andrew Talansky (Garmin Sharp) knew that his efforts on the day had secured him the over all victory in the 66th Criterium du Dauphine, his first major stage race win at the tender young age of 25.  Jurgen Van Den Broeck's (Lotto-Belisol) efforts were enough to move him onto the final podium with only Contador between these two.  I must say that at the start of the day I never expected the ending to turn out as it did.  I was surprised yesterday when Contador took the Jersey off of Froome's back, but I was sure the only possible change would be that Froome would take it back.  In the end it was the dark horse of the young American that surprised most of us to claim the Malliot Jeune.  Chapeau!  This is an original watercolor and ink small (4"x6") painting that could be yours through a visit to my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post, and yes, I do ship internationally.

This is the last race I plan to paint ahead of the 101st Tour de France, so thanks for reading, (and a big thank you to those of you who have bought one of these little cycling treasures) and I will see you again in three weeks.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-view/Dauphine%202014/2389670---199476/Painting.html#.U6cEUM_D_IU