Tour Stage 5: Not What Was Expected

Most everyone had predicted that Vincenzo Nibali (Astana) that he would not be wearing Yellow at the end of the day, even Nibali was claiming that would be the case to the press.  I have a suspicion that he may of been playing to the camera and planning something else entirely.  Instead of dropping off the pace, the Maillot Jaune went into the front group, caught the break away and with his teammates, Jakob Fuglsang and Lieuwe Westra drove the leading group of four away from all of his GC rivals.  I am sure that Lars Boom (Belkin Pro Cycling) couldn't believe his good fortune.  With Nibali primarily interested in gaining time on his rivals, Boom got a free ride that may well give him the stage victory.  You can see just how wet and muddy the roads were with the racing strip of road grit, water and mud that has sprayed up the backs of everyone's racing kit.  This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  These paintings and writings of the 101st Tour de France will be collect into my soon to be self published, "Book de Tour".  To learn more about the book project, pre-order your copy or discover how to get involved in bring this Tour to print please visit https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1335072134/book-de-tour.  You will discover so great rewards for those who choose to back the project.  If you would like to purchase this painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-view/Tour%20de%20France%202014/2399378---199992/Painting.html#.U73VBcvD_IU