Women's Tour of California, Final Stage: Claiming the Final One

In the end it was Hitec Products that got there sprinter, Kristen Wild, first.  As she spread her arms in victory, she was thrilled to have held off the closing Green Jersey of Marianne Vos (Boels-Dolmans) and Lisa Brennauer (Canyon SRAM).  Vos's teammate, Megan Gaurnier finished with the peloton so she successfully defended her Yellow Jersey of race leader.  The team of Boels-Dolmans managed to win two of the four leaders jerseys of the Women's Tour of California.  Chapeau!

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships"

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795696-56-223355/Painting.html#.V0PFVPkrLIU

Women's Tour of California, Final Stage: Leading Them Around

With the peloton all back together, yet again, it was time for the sprinters to wind up for the final assault.  Leading the entire group through the turn after the finishing straight was the Blue Jersey of Most Courageous Rider - Sarah Storey (Podium Ambition).  I believe she had claimed the jersey after her courageous ride in Stage 1. Riders from Twenty 16 and Hitec Products follow her high speed cornering in hopes that they would get the jump for their sprinters.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795693-55-223355/Painting.html#.V0PCCfkrLIU

Women's Tour of California, Final Stage: Riding Off the Front

The final stage of the Women's Tour of California featured a twenty lap circuit race through the streets of Sacramento. The course was the same as the final section of what the men would ride after their ride along the Sacramento River.  With a flat course and only six turns per lap, it was going to take an extreme effort to ride away from the peloton.  Perhaps it would take a miracle or a disaster to stay away.  One of the attempts to fly off the front was launched by Amber Neben (Bepink).  She did managed to prize out ten or twenty seconds, but like others before her, she was soon back with the ladies of the peloton.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795690-54-223355/Painting.html#.V0O_j_krLIU

Women's Tour of California, Stage 3: Back on Form

Marianne Vos (Rabo Liv) proved that she was back on form after a rough 2015 season.  And she should that just because she crashed in a sprint one month ago, doesn't mean she isn't up to mixing it up in a bunch sprint.  Although I will not that she held herself to the middle of the road.  Vos was able to get past Coryn Rivera (UnitedHealthcare) who had been the first to launch her sprint.  With Megan Guarnier (Boels Dolmans) finishing with the winners, the Yellow Jersey stayed firmly on her shoulders.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

Coryn Rivera is on of the riders feature in my book on the Richmond 2015 races.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795402-53-223355/Painting.html#.V0NKN_krLIU

Women's Tour of California, Stage 3: Stretching Her Legs

Chloe Dygert (Twenty 16-Ridebiker) bedecked in her rather attractive pink detailed Best Young Rider's Jersey, was the second rider to attempt to spoil the day of the sprinters.  Dygert used this very tactic to claim the Rainbow Jersey in her Junior Women's race in the 2015 UCI Road World Championships.  I imagine that there were some in the peloton who knew that this was one rider that they couldn't allow to escape their clutches.  She also claimed the Rainbow Jersey in the Junior Women's Individual Time Trial, so she is no stranger to riding fast on her own.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

Naturally, Chloe Dygert features prominently in my book on the Richmond 2015 races.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795396-52-223355/Painting.html#.V0NHp_krLIU

Women's Tour of California, Stage 3: More Points for the Queen

I guess it makes sense, but it seems odd to hear the climbers referred to as the Queens of the Mountains.  I did notice that the race organizers hadn't bother to make two different sets of climb markers (notice the KOM on the inflatable on the side of the road).  Mara Abbot (Wiggle High5) easliy claimed the maximum points on the hardest climb of the day up and over Harris Grade Road.  Her progress was closely monitor by the Yellow Jersey of Megan Guarnier (Boels Dolmans) and her teammate, Evelyn Stevens (who is in third on the General Classification.)  The climb featured a breath taking view of the Pacific Ocean and an escort from Wonder Woman herself.  That tifosi seemed most appropriate.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

Both Megan Gaurnier and Evelyn Stevens feature in my book on the Richmond 2015 races.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795387-51-223355/Painting.html#.V0NExvkrLIU

Women's Tour of California, Stage 3: The Counter Attack

The penultimate stage of the Women's Tour of California featured the peloton not letting any of the breaks succeed.  After each attempted was reeled back in by the attentive main body of the race another would jump free and gain a small gap before being reeled back in again.  This attempt was Valentina Scandolara (Cylance Pro Cycling), but she too, found the women in the peloton indisposed to letting her escape their clutches.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

Scandolara is one of the riders featured in my book on the Richmond 2015 races.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795378-50-223355/Painting.html#.V0NCUPkrLIU

Tour of California, Final Stage: Not Done Yet

The Tour of California may be over, but Mark Cavendish (Dimension Data) isn't finished being a great sprinter.  Many have begun to write of the Manx Missile, but today he came around both Peter Sagan (Tinkoff) and Alexander Kristoff (Katusha) to affirm that he is still a very powerful sprinter.  A few riders back you can just see the raised arms of the winner of the overall classification of the Tour, Julian Alaphilippe (Etixx-Quickstep),  Chapeau!  And well done to all who raced over the last eight days.  It has been my pleasure to watch you race, and to paint your exploits.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795063-49-223355/Painting.html#.V0Km3PkrLIU

Tour of California, Final Stage: As Hard as They Can

Team Katusha was now at the front with just one man left to launch their man, Alexander Kristoff.  The peloton was inside of the final kilometer, so it was beginning to look like he might pull of two wins in a road.  In behind the wheel of the Norwegian sprinter was a rider from BMC followed by Peter Sagan (Tinkoff) sporting his Green Jersey of most consistent sprinter.  Just peeking into the edge of the painting is the Yellow Jersey of Julian Alaphilippe (Etixx-Quickstep).  Alaphilippe most likely wasn't racing for a stage victory, he should just be making sure that he doesn't lose a second to any of his rivals.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795060-48-223355/Painting.html#.V0KksfkrLIU

Tour of California, Final Stage: Doctor's Visit

Dylan Groenewegen (LottoNL Jumbo) was caught up in one of those little tumbles that can happen at any moment, particularly when the peloton has been racing flat out for seven days.  After he had gotten a fresh bike and chased back up through the following caravan of team cars and race officials, he stopped in at the doctors office.  The race provides moving medical attention for those who are able to get back on their bikes and continue racing.  While it is the last stage of the race, no rider can start the next day if he doesn't finish the day before, in this case, no one wants to not finish the Tour of California when there is only twenty miles left to race.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795057-47-223355/Painting.html#.V0KijfkrLIU

Tour of California, Final Stage: On the Open Road

Wanting to leave nothing to chance, the teams of the sprinters and of the Yellow Jersey, toiled away on the front of the peloton making sure that the seven men up the road never gained more than two minutes of the group being lead by Daniel Teklehaimanot (Dimension Data).  The Eritrean Tekleharmanot had the honor of being the first African rider to ever pull on the Polka Dot Jersey of King of the Mountains in the Tour de France.  He gained fame not only in his country but through out the entire continent.  The peloton was riding through the wide open plains of the interior of California, the region that is consider the bread basket of the state.  Although more than just wheat is farmed in the fields along today's route.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795054-46-223355/Painting.html#.V0KfsfkrLIU

Tour of California, Final Stage: Perhaps in Vain

Even the final stage of the Tour of California had a group that hoped to stay off the front of the peloton all of the way in to Sacramento, the capitol of California.  With the sprinters having one last chance to get a victory and a course nearly as flat as a pancake, it seems like the efforts of these seven guys will almost definitely be in vain.  However it didn't stop Christopher Jones (UnitedHealthcare), Taylor Sheldon (Jelly Belly), Jake Kelly (Team Wiggins), Krists Neilands (Axeon Hagen Berman) nor Alan Marangoni (Cannondale) from giving it a go.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2795051-45-223355/Painting.html#.V0KdFPkrLIU

Tour of California, Stage 7: Finishing It Off

Alexander Kristoff (Katsuha) finished off the work that his teammates had put in for the last thirty miles.  The fast man from Norway has had a great early season and I am sure was frustrated to not have won the opening stage of this Tour.  Amazingly, he only narrowly beat out the sprint king, Peter Sagan (Tinkoff) who had been out in the break for most of the stage and on his own for at least twenty miles.  How the World Champion had the legs to stay with the peloton is a surprise, but being able to contest the sprint with men who hadn't had their noses in the wind all day is something else altogether!  Brian Coquard (Direct Energie) managed a fourth on the day, being held off from the podium by Danny Van Poppel (Team Sky).  It should prove to be a very exciting final sprint tomorrow.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794991-44-223355/Painting.html#.V0JbrvkrLIU

Tour of California, Stage 7: Working for Their Sprinters

With perhaps the best known sprinter in the world up the road, Peter Sagan (Tinkoff).  The teams of sprinters Brian Coquard (Direct Energie) and Alexander Kristoff (Katusha) went to the front and put in the effort to chase the Slovakian down.  Neither of them had yet to claim a stage victory in this year's running of the Tour, and the quarry already has two victories this year.  Just behind the two teams you can just see the Yellow Jersey on the shoulders of Julian Alaphilippe (Etixx-Quickstep).  He had been tested early in the stage by those in second and third overall, Rohan Dennis and Brentbookwalter, both riding for BMC Pro Cycling, and he had defended his jersey admirably.  With a flat sprinter's stage for the finale, it seems that all he need do to win the Tour of California is stay upright for one more day.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794982-43-223355/Painting.html#.V0JX2PkrLIU

Tour of California, Stage 7: Wonder Woman/Wonder Man

The Californian cycling fans have turned out in all sorts of costumes to cheer on the pedal men from around the world.  I have seen the Pope, all sorts of animals, and a flag bearing runner wearing a helmet crowned with all sorts of different antlers, but today's Wonder Woman get up has to be my favorite of this year's Tour.  Plus my sister is a bit devoted to Wonder Woman, her Facebook page includes Wonder Woman climbing a flag pole to remove a Confederate flag.  Peter Sagan was proving a very appropriate accompanist for the red caped heroine, riding an incredible ride including even being the first over the final climb while wearing the Green Jersey of the best sprinter.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794961-42-223355/Painting.html#.V0JSX_krLIU

Tour of California, Stage 7: Where Did They Go?

Peter Sagan (Tinkoff) clad in the Green Jersey of the Sprint Points Jersey (the race leader's jerseys taken precedence over the World Champion's Rainbow Jersey).  Sagan must have been feeling extremely strong.  He had gone in the early break to collect up all of the intermediate sprint points to insure his victory in the Sprint Competition.  Has he and the other five guys in the break were racing along the coast, he took his turn on the front and simply road away from the other five.  When he looked back over his shoulder and discovered he had a gap, he figured why not keep riding?  As he climbed the final categorized climb of the Tour of California, he could only find the race motos on his wheel.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794955-41-223355/Painting.html#.V0JN6PkrLIU

Tour of California, Stage 7: Lovely Roads

The Tour of California seeks out some beautiful roads to take through the peaks and valleys of the state.  Today the high light was riding back along the coast on the Pacific Coastal Highway, but even before the break turned onto the coastal road, they passed along side this beautiful lake.  Today's break took awhile to form and the final composition was a rather strong group including George Bennett (LottoNL Jumbo) who was only a minute and a quarter off of the lead.  Two of the other strong riders in the group where Greg Van Avermaet (BMC) and Peter Sagan (Tinkoff).  Rounding out the break were yet another representative form Axeon Hagens Berman, Krists Neilands, as well as Robbie Squire Holoweska/Citadel) and Javier Megias (Novo Nordisk)

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was painting using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company (www.richesonart.com).  This painting along with all of my cycling art, 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.  While you are at the website, be sure to check out my two cycling art books, "Book du Tour: Art of the 101st Tour de France" and, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships".

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794946-40-223355/Painting.html#.V0JLPvkrLIU

Women's Tour of California, Stage 2, Double Checking

Ever the experience racer, Kristen Armstrong (Twenty 16-Ridebiker) looks back over her shoulder to make sure that she has brought the necessary number of teammates to the line.  In a Team Time Trial, the time for all of the riders is taken when a predetermined number of riders cross the finishing line.  In this case the magic number was four.  The young start of the Richmond UCI Road World Championships, Chloe Dygert, was the fourth and the one to stop the clock for the winning time for her team.  Chloe Dygert won both her classes' time trial and road race claiming the rainbow jersey for both victories.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting along with my book, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI World Road Racing Championships," 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.  Remember, it is a one of a kind piece, so once it is sold, it is no longer available.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794409-39-223355/Painting.html#.V0FHFfkrLIU

Women's Tour of California, Stage 2: The End Is in Sight

The down side of watching highlights of races is you don't get to see how the story unfolded for yourself.  Someday soon, I hope, women's cycling will get the same attention (and pay scale) as the men.  Until then, I will have to make do with what I can get.  It was a treat to see the winner of the Elite Women's Time Trial World Championships leading her team across the line.  LInda Villmusen (UnitedHealthcare) wasn't wearing her rainbow jersey of World Champion, I am not exactly sure why.  As with each of the previous clips, this became the new best time as the five members still together crossed the line.  Just like the others, they had to wait and see if their time would stand.  Spoiler alert... It didn't.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting along with my book, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI World Road Racing Championships," 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.  Remember, it is a one of a kind piece, so once it is sold, it is no longer available.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794406-38-223355/Painting.html#.V0FEOfkrLIU

Women's Tour of California, Stage 2: Through the Curves

Sorry, I couldn't resist the pun...  While I am thrilled that Amgen Tour of California is hosting a women's race, I am a little disappointed with the accessibility of video of these incredibly talent racers showing just how good they are.  What I was able to find was through the UCI Women's YouTube channel - Amgen TOC is suppose to replaying the videos, but alas, they aren't up to date.  So while I am forced to use highlights of the day's racing, it is certainly better than nothing.  So this is the second team I got to watch race, and they have now posted the new best time.  Rabo Liv Women's Cycling did  well to move Maranne Vos into striking distance on the GC.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting along with my book, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI World Road Racing Championships," 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.  Remember, it is a one of a kind piece, so once it is sold, it is no longer available.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794160-37-223355/Painting.html#.V0DECPkrLIU

Women's Tour of California, Stage 2: Just Underway

The defending Women's Elite Women's Team Time Trial Champions were the first team that I got to see getting underway in the Team Time Trial that was Stage 2 of the Women's Amgen Tour of California.  The team of Canyon-SRAM rolled out with all six of their members including the renowned Lisa Brennauer.  As expected, they finished with the early best time, but there were still quite a number of teams to take on the 20 mile course.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting along with my book, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI World Road Racing Championships," 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.  Remember, it is a one of a kind piece, so once it is sold, it is no longer available.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794139-36-223355/Painting.html#.V0DB9vkrLIU

Tour of California, Stage 6: Fighting All the Way

This title reflects just what Julian Alaphilippe (Etixx-Quickstep) was able to accomplish today.  While the discipline of racing against the clock is not his strong suit, nor did he have an untalented field trying to take the yellow jersey from his back, the Frenchman was able to ride fast enough to keep possession of the overall lead in the Amgen Tour of California.  He got home with about 5 seconds to spare,   The stage had the effect of bunching the top five places on GC closer together ensuring that the race will be competitive all the say through Sunday.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting along with my book, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI World Road Racing Championships," 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.  Remember, it is a one of a kind piece, so once it is sold, it is no longer available.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794130-35-223355/Painting.html#.V0C_2_krLIU

Tour of California, Stage 6: Sprinting Home

Andrew Talansky (Cannondale) must have been given wings by his Stars and Stripes jersey of USA Time Trial Champion.  Talansky was able to just nip the time of his country man, Taylor Phinney (BMC) briefly taking over the lead on the day.  Unfortunately for the American Champion, the Australian Champion was still out on the road.  By the end of the day, Talansky had to settle for second place on the day, but it did help move him up on the general classification.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting along with my book, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI World Road Racing Championships," 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.  Remember, it is a one of a kind piece, so once it is sold, it is no longer available.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794064-34-223355/Painting.html#.V0C6pvkrLIU

Tour of California, Stage 6, Holding a Little Back

Rohan Dennis (BMC) - the current Australian Time Trial Champion - had the advantage of knowing just how is teammate, Taylor Phinney, managed to post the current best time on the day.  Dennis was not leading as he rounded the U-turn and headed for home, but he had obviously held something in reserve for the assault into the wind.  Dennis was on a ride that would ultimately give him the stage victory.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting along with my book, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI World Road Racing Championships," 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.  Remember, it is a one of a kind piece, so once it is sold, it is no longer available.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794055-32-223355/Painting.html#.V0C32vkrLIU

Tour of California, Stage 6: Catching Them Up

Soren Kragh Andersen (Giant Alpecin) was laying down a blistering ride on the 12 mile time trial course.  He was able to catch Ariel Maximiliano Richeze (Etixx-Quickstep) who had gone down the start ramp a minute ahead of the Dane.  Andersen posted the new best split time as he made the U-turn that lead the riders back to the start house.  However, he feel prey to the trick of the wind.  The riders started out with a strong tail wind, that can seduce one into thinking they are doing much better than they actually are.  The problem is when you turn back around into a headwind and realize you don't have anything left.  God knows, I have done this more times than I care to admit.  Despite his split time, he was unable to get himself onto the podium at the end of the day.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting along with my book, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI World Road Racing Championships," 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.  Remember, it is a one of a kind piece, so once it is sold, it is no longer available.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794052-31-223355/Painting.html#.V0C11_krLIU

Tour of California, Stage 6: Setting the Bench Mark

This is the first chance that I have had to see Vasil Kiryienka (Team Sky) in his newly minted Rainbow Jersey of World Individual Time Trial Champion that he won here in Richmond, Virginia.  Kiryienka was a late pick for who on the team would be coming to California to race.  Add to that his crash on a descent on stage two, and he isn't in the best place to take the stage.  That being said, he posted the best split time and came across the line with the new best time.  However, due to his position on the general classification, there were quite a few top notch riders yet to throw their helmets into the ring.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting along with my book, "Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI World Road Racing Championships," 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.  Remember, it is a one of a kind piece, so once it is sold, it is no longer available.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2794049-30-223355/Painting.html#.V0CzwvkrLIU

Women's Tour of California, Stage 1: Home Girl Victory

Although she rides for a Dutch team, Megan Guarnier (Boels Dolmans) is the USA Road Champion.  Bedecked in her stars and stripes jersey, she raised her arm in a victory celebration as she crossed the line in the first UCI Women's race on American soil.  Guarnier had followed the wheel of her teammate, Chantel Blaak on the final ascent to the line, and then jumped around her fading Dutch teammate as Mara Abbot (Wiggle High5) tried to sprint for the victory.  Guarnier was able to put 8 seconds between herself and Abbot, with the next group coming in another two seconds later.  Guarnier's victory was enough for her to trade in her stars and stripes for the Yellow Jersey of the first leader of the Women's Tour of California.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and in fact, all of my cycling art, 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.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2793806-29-223355/Painting.html#.Vz9kivmDGko

Women's Tour of California, Stage 1: Feeling the Peloton's Return

Sarah Storey (Podium Ambition) used her time trialing skills (she just missed setting a one hour record early this year) to stay off of the front for most of the stage.  Alas, as she road up one of the last (uncatagorized) climbs she could feel the peloton just around the corner.  Her effort may not have gotten her onto the podium, nor the yellow jersey, but it did earn her the first blue jersey of the most courageous rider of the day.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and in fact, all of my cycling art, 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.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2793785-28-223355/Painting.html#.Vz9h8_mDGko

Women's Tour of California Stage 1: Red Lining at the Summit

Borrowing a metaphor from auto racing, these three of the front of the peloton where making out their engines as they road over the only Queen of the Mountain climb of the day (cute change in competition title there isn't it?).  Sara Poidevin (Rally Cycling) was the first to hit the summit followed closely by Mara Abbot (Wiggle High5) and Tayler Wiles (USA Cycling).  Although I must say they must have all been on the rivot, since it appeared that no one seemed able to sprint for the points.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and in fact, all of my cycling art, 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.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2793776-27-223355/Painting.html#.Vz9gGPmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 5: With Aplomb

Roughly a year ago, Toms Skujins (Cannondale), then riding for Hincapie Racing, went for a long solo break in a stage of the Amgen Tour of California and claimed victory on the day.  This year he did have two men with him when he was within site of the finish line, but the result was still the same.  Once he knew he had the better of Adam De Vos (Rally Cycling), he spread his arms and legs wide absorbing the cool winds off of the lake and the warm applause of the crowd.  With Skujins victory the Argyle boys have to stages to their credit and a day in Yellow, not a bad outing for the home team.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and all of my cycling artwork is available, along with my two cycling books (one on the 2014 Tour de France and the other on the 2015 UCI Road World World Championships) on 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, international shipping is available.  But don't delay, since it is an original work of art, once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2793515-26-223355/Painting.html#.Vz6c8_mDGko

Tour of California, Stage 5: Launching

As they well knew, the sprint for the finish came down to a fight between Adam De Vos (Rally Cycling), Toms Skujins (Cannondale) and Xabier Zandio (Team Sky).  It was De Vos who opened up the sprint, a steep uphill affair, the was initially covered by Zandio with Skujins looking at the duo and checking to see if he had the legs to go with the attack.  There was one rider, Jasper Stuyens (Trek-Segafredo) trying desperately to bridge up to the three, but he was quickly running out of real estate.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and all of my cycling artwork is available, along with my two cycling books (one on the 2014 Tour de France and the other on the 2015 UCI Road World World Championships) on 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, international shipping is available.  But don't delay, since it is an original work of art, once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2793512-25-223355/Painting.html#.Vz6YzPmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 5: Now Its Three

The duo of Toms Skujins (Cannondale) and Adam De Vos (Rally Cycling) had been caught by their former break away companions, only to jump off the front again.  The only one capable of bridging across was the oldest man in the race, Xabier Zandio (Team Sky).  The trio had over three minutes on the peloton and nearly a minute on their twice former break away compatriots.  With roughly ten kilometers left to race this trio was fairly certain it would be they contesting for victory.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and all of my cycling artwork is available, along with my two cycling books (one on the 2014 Tour de France and the other on the 2015 UCI Road World World Championships) on 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, international shipping is available.  But don't delay, since it is an original work of art, once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2793509-24-223355/Painting.html#.Vz6Vy_mDGko

Tour of California, Stage 5: Driving It Across the Valley

Rather than on the climbs, BMC used the wind swept valley to drive the pace and split the peloton.  With the break up the road, the American team (and reigning Team Time Trail World Champions) saw an opportunity to put some time into those near both Rohan Dennis and Brent Bookwalter.  Or perhaps Taylor Phinney was driving the pace to put Greg Van Avermaet in with a chance to make up for his second place on Stage 3.  Joining the BMC armada was the pink bike riding Kiel Reiinen (Trek-Segafredo).

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and all of my cycling artwork is available, along with my two cycling books (one on the 2014 Tour de France and the other on the 2015 UCI Road World World Championships) on 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, international shipping is available.  But don't delay, since it is an original work of art, once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2793506-23-223355/Painting.html#.Vz6TXvmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 5: A Little Dig

The problem with a big break away is that there tends to be too many passengers and not enough drivers.  Toms Skujins (Cannondale) jumped out of the group on the climb up to the Kirkwood Summit the only one to respond was the Canadian, Adam De Vos (Rally Cycling).  The duo seemed to have a brief conversation on their way to the summit.  Apparently a deal was made because Skujins backed off the pace just before the summit letting De Vos claim the maximum points at the top of the climb.  Unexpectedly, the pair continued to press their advantage on the descent, building up a quick 40 seconds on their erstwhile companions.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and all of my cycling artwork is available, along with my two cycling books (one on the 2014 Tour de France and the other on the 2015 UCI Road World World Championships) on 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, international shipping is available.  But don't delay, since it is an original work of art, once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2793503-22-223355/Painting.html#.Vz6PrfmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 5: What's the Plan?

Stage 5 in the Tour of California produced the largest break away thus far in the race.  Eighteen men were able to escape the grip of the peloton, mainly because none were close enough to the lead of Julian Alaphilippe (Etixx-Quickstep) to affect his over all lead.  In fact the highest placed member of the break was his own teammate, Maxime Bouet.  Adam Blythe (Tinkoff) dropped back to his team car to get a bottle and a little advice on how he should play his position to the advantage of his team leader, Peter Sagan.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and all of my cycling artwork is available, along with my two cycling books (one on the 2014 Tour de France and the other on the 2015 UCI Road World World Championships) on 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, international shipping is available.  But don't delay, since it is an original work of art, once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2793500-21-223355/Painting.html#.Vz6M-fmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 4: The Clear Winner

Two steep climbs within the final 5 kilometers ensured that the marquee sprinters would not be present to contest for the stage victory.  However the World Champion, Peter Sagan (Tinkoff) is not your typical sprinter.  It was Sagan who was able to sprint around Nathan Hass (Dimension Data) and still hold off the chasing Greg Van Avermaet (BMC).  It was Van Avermaet that Sagan left on the penultimate climb of 23rd Street in Richmond, Virginia on his was to winning his Rainbow Jersey.  Van Avermaet did manage to exact some revenge in some of the early Spring races in Belgium this year.  Julian Alaphilippe (Etixx-Quickstep) managed to hang on to finish at the same time as the leaders thus holding on to Yellow.  Sagan may have done enough to solidify is hold on what will become his fourth Green Jersey in the Tour of California, a feat he has already accomplished in the Tour de France.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting created live during the race using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and all of my cycling art is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  You will also find my art/cycling books on the 2014 Tour du France and the 2015 UCI Road World Championships on the site as well.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post. Don't delay, these are one of a kind original paintings, so once they are gone, they are gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2792960-20-223355/Painting.html#.Vz0Vw_mDGko

Tour of California, Stage 4: On to the Track

Two short steep climbs mark the end of a 134 mile race along the Pacific coast, the final on the Mazda Raceway just above Monterey Bay.  First it was yet another rider for Axeon Hagens Berman, Ruben Gurreiro, who went on the attack.  His effort was quickly countered by Nathan Haas (Dimension Data).  While these two raced away, the favorites including George Bennett (LottoNL Jumbo), Peter Sagan (Tinkoff) and Greg Van Avermaet (BMC) played cat and mouse, trying to see who could escape from whom.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting created live during the race using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and all of my cycling art is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  You will also find my art/cycling books on the 2014 Tour du France and the 2015 UCI Road World Championships on the site as well.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post. Don't delay, these are one of a kind original paintings, so once they are gone, they are gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2792957-19-223355/Painting.html#.Vz0SOfmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 4: Dropped Them All

Gregory Daniel (Axeon Hagens Berman), bedecked in the bright blue jersey of most courageous rider from his efforts in Stage 3, showed no signs of being star struck.  The young American launched his attack on the penultimate climb of the day.  He looked back over his shoulder to confirm that not only was he the first over the climb, but he had dropped the rest of the members of the break.  With just 5 miles left to race on the longest stage of the Tour, he was hoping to hold off the break and the closing peloton.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting created live during the race using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and all of my cycling art is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  You will also find my art/cycling books on the 2014 Tour du France and the 2015 UCI Road World Championships on the site as well.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post. Don't delay, these are one of a kind original paintings, so once they are gone, they are gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2792954-18-223355/Painting.html#.Vz0OvfmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 4: Taking a Peek

The only thing odder than seeing the famous sprinter, Mark Cavendish (Dimension Data), in a break away, is seeing him lead the small group up a climb.  I am curious what was going through Gregory Daniel's (Axeon Hagens Berman) mind as he rode along with one of the legendary figures still competing on the ProTour.  Also with this group was yet another of the young riders from Rally Cycling, Will Routley.  It feels like Rally Cycling and Axeon Hagens Berman have had a player in every break away in every stage of this year's Tour.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting created live during the race using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and all of my cycling art is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  You will also find my art/cycling books on the 2014 Tour du France and the 2015 UCI Road World Championships on the site as well.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post. Don't delay, these are one of a kind original paintings, so once they are gone, they are gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2792939-17-223355/Painting.html#.Vz0LdPmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 4: Along the Coast

I find the peloton a thing of beauty, the sport a pure art form, full of color, motion and drama, and then there are days like today.  The fourth stage of the Amgen Tour of California routed the riders north along the Coastal Highway that dives a weaves along the spectacular coastline of the Pacific Ocean.  Today's break comprised of Mark Cavendish (Dimension Data), Gregory Daniel (Axeon Hagens Berman), Tanner Putt (UnitedHealthcare), Timo Roosen (Lotto NL Jumbo), Michael Morkov (Katusha), Ryan Anderson (Direct Energie) and Will Routley (Rally Cycling), may have been spending too much energy to enjoy the views, but I certainly enjoy the scenery.  Riding this road is one of the things on my "bucket list."

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting created live during the race using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting and all of my cycling art is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  You will also find my art/cycling books on the 2014 Tour du France and the 2015 UCI Road World Championships on the site as well.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post. Don't delay, these are one of a kind original paintings, so once they are gone, they are gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2792933-16-223355/Painting.html#.Vz0HrfmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 3: With Only the Camera for Company

The final attack was launched by Julian Alphilippe (Etixx-Quickstep), and it was his that stuck!  Alphilippe pushed off from the wheel of Peter Stetina (Trek-Segafredo) with less than 500 meters to the summit.  It was his patience that made his burst of effort so successful.  His victory atop Gibraltar Road also gave him the overall race lead.  You should know that the efforts of the first to attack, Nielson Powless (Axeon Hagens Berman) earned him a 5th on the stage and a fifth on the General Classification.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting measuring 4"x6" and was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting (and all of my cycling art and cycling books) are available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  To purchase this particular painting (and yes international shipping is available), just follow the direct link at the end of this post.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2792327-15-223355/Painting.html#.VzvSyPmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 3: Less Than One Kilometer

Peter Stetina (Trek-Segafredo) was the next to go on the offensive.  He waited a little longer than the youthful Nielson Powless (Axeon Hagens Berman).  As he went under the flame rouge that de-marks the final kilometer of the stage, he had a good ten seconds on those who had set their hopes on victory atop the brutal climb.  Alas, like Powless before him, Stetina couldn't hold on to his advantage and had to settle for second on the stage, and for being second overall in the General Classification.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting measuring 4"x6" and was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting (and all of my cycling art and cycling books) are available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  To purchase this particular painting (and yes international shipping is available), just follow the direct link at the end of this post.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2792279-14-223355/Painting.html#.VzvL1PmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 3: The Power of Youth

To the surprise of the commentary team, and to the ever dwindling peloton, the youngest man in the race (still a teenager), Neilson Powless (Axeon Hagens Berman) jumped off of the front of the group. He quickly opened up a gap of up to 30 seconds on those laboring up the Gibraltar Road climb.  The climb is the steepest and hardest in this year's Tour of California, and was proving to be upsetting the overall classification rather quickly.  Already off the back and losing large junks of time are two of the wearers of the Yellow Jersey, Peter Sagan (Tinkoff) and Ben King (Cannondale).  It remains to be seen if the youngster Powless had the legs to hold off some of the big names of international cycling.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting measuring 4"x6" and was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting (and all of my cycling art and cycling books) are available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  To purchase this particular painting (and yes international shipping is available), just follow the direct link at the end of this post.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2792237-13-223355/Painting.html#.VzvJBPmDGko

Tour of California, Stage 3: Leaving the Others Behind

Feeling the peloton closing in and the weakening of the other members of the break away, frist Tanner Putt (UnitedHealthcare) and then Gregory Daniel (Axeon Hagens Berman) attack the other escapees.  Gregory Daniel is the rider who is in one of the most popular images I painted during the UCI Road World Championships in Richmond, Virgina.  The painting is of the young American riding over the James River on the Lee Bridge with the downtown city skyline just over his shoulder.  It is a treat to see those I watch race in the Under23 and Junior races move up into the developmental and Pro teams.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting measuring 4"x6" and was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting (and all of my cycling art and cycling books) are available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  To purchase this particular painting (and yes international shipping is available), just follow the direct link at the end of this post.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2792231-12-223355/Painting.html#.VzvGC_mDGko

Tour of California, Stage 3: Second by Second

Cannondale has the Yellow Jersey on the shoulders of one of their teammates, Ben King, so it falls on them to reel the escapes back into the fold. Leading the team is Patrik Bevin, sporting the bandages of a crash early in the stage.  Riding just on their wheels was the team of Evan Huffman, Rally Cycling.  While the man riding in the Polka Dot Jersey and sitting second overall was up the road, it was his team that kept their eye on the boys in green.  I can't really figure out what Rally Cycling's goal was back in the peloton, but Huffman was certainly achieving his up the road.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting measuring 4"x6" and was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from www.richesonart.com.  This painting (and all of my cycling art and cycling books) are available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  To purchase this particular painting (and yes international shipping is available), just follow the direct link at the end of this post.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Tour%20of%20California/2792228-11-223355/Painting.html#.VzvDm_mDGko