With almost 190 kilometers in their legs, along with 10 steep climbs and this the final of eleven sections of pave, the riders were looking everywhere for the smoothest section of road. While it adds some risk for punctures and collision with spectators, the side of the road (or gutter) is the smoothest section of the cobbles. Of course, smooth is only a relative term here, it is still bone jarring when ridden at speed on a ultra light racing bicycle. This trio are the second group on the road, hoping against hope that they will see the leading quartet before the finish line. Leading the chase is Sep Vanmarcke (Lotto Jumbo NL), followed by a former winner, Greg Van Avermaet (BMC). Tagged onto the back of the group not helping to chase down his teammates is the current Czech National Champion, Zdenek Stybar (Etixx Quickstep).
This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that is available through my artist website at
www.greigleach.com To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.
If you are enjoying reading about cycling this way and the accompanying artwork, be sure to check out my recently published book, "Book de Tour - Art of the 101st Tour de France"
http://www.greigleach.com/gallery/201710/Book+de+Tour/#.VPOW8vnF-xU
http://www.greigleach.com/large-view/Spring%20Classics%202014/2519200---195767/Painting.html#.VPOpk_nF-xU
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