Eagerly Awaiting the Start of the Tour

I am pulling together all of the information that I need to write the blog post for the coming 2016 Tour de France.  I have just finished going through the Le Tour website and logging all of the stages, profile maps, distances, climbs and sprint towns, complete with how many kilometers left to race at each climb or sprint.  I am awaiting the assigning of bib numbers and final confirmation of who will be representing each team at the Grand Depart at Mont Saint Michele.

Be sure to check back for my paintings and blog post of every stage of the Tour, everyday that wheels roll on the Grand Boucle.

All of the paintings will be painted in real time (or as close to real time as possible) without knowing the results of each day of racing.  The artwork will be created using ink and Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors (available at www.richesonart.com).  After I have posted the art here on this blog, the work will be available for purchase through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  I will provide a direct link to each painting at the end of each co-responding post.

Dauphine, Final Stage: Sprinting for Second

Both Dan Martin (Etixx-Quickstep) and Romain Bardet (Ag2r La Mondiale) were fighting it out for second place.  Oddly, both succeed.  Martin got the second place on the stage and the six bonus seconds moved him in to third overall for the 68th Criterium du Dauphine.  Bardet missed second on the stage but his time and the two second bonus put him into second overall.  Ever vigilant Team Sky was represented by Wouter Poels who finished fourth on the stage, but it may be argued that he, Sergio Henao, Mikel Landa and Chris Froome boxed in Richie Porte (BMC) to ensure that he couldn't overtake Froome in the closing meters of the day (although gaining six seconds and a time bonus was highly unlikely).  In the end, no harm no foul, and it most likely was completely innocent.  But in the words of some NASCAR driver, "That's racing."

This will do it for me until the start of the Tour de France in just 19 days.  Now it is time to focus on some other projects.  See you in July!

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

Be sure to check out my second cycling art book, Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships, available online or through your local book seller.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807395-84-185083/Painting.html#.V12qn_krLIU

Dauphine, Final Stage: Thumbs Up!

When asked about the oft ill fated break aways, Jens Voigt responded, "If you go in the break you have about a 10% chance of winning, if you don't go it is 0%."  Stephen Cummings (Dimension Data) was all smiles and celebratory gestures as his gamble paid off.  Cummings knew that all of the GC contenders would be busy watching each other, and their teams would be working to secure on improve their leaders positions.  Likewise the stage was far to lumpy for any sprinters to use their teams to chase down any break aways, so it was a perfect stage to go for a long solo effort.  And boy, oh boy, was his effort a long one, he went off the front on his own with just over 50 kilometers left to race!  In the end, he finished just under four minutes ahead of those who wanted to stand on the final podium.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

Be sure to check out my second cycling art book, Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships, available online or through your local book seller.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807386-83-185083/Painting.html#.V12livkrLIU

Dauphine, Final Stage: Attack, Counter, Attack

The descent off of the Col du Noyer was like a heavy weight prize fight, each man hitting out at the other in hopes of delivering a knock out blow.  First it was Alberto Contador (Tinkoff) trying to use his descending skills to get a gap.  Then it was Chris Froome (Sky) attacking to show that he was up to the challenge of defending his Maillot Jaune.  And now it was Romain Bardet (Ag2r La Mondiale) trying to get a jump on the others, perhaps sensing that the others were beginning to tire.  Only Richie Porte (BMC) seemed to have nothing to offer in the boxing match.  You can tell by the body language of Froome, he wasn't about to let Bardet's attack succeed.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

Be sure to check out my second cycling art book, Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships, available online or through your local book seller.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807383-82-185083/Painting.html#.V12f2_krLIU

Dauphine, Final Stage: Froome's Answer

Alberto Contador's (Tinkoff) attack of the main contenders on the ascent of the Col du Noyer gain him a few seconds to begin with, but Chris Froome (Sky) had the answer.  Froome was isolated by Contador's efforts, but he still had the legs to go around the former holder of the Maillot Jaune.  Richie Porte (BMC) and Romain Bardet (Ag2r La Mondiale) were distanced by the attacks, but they are quickly pulling themselves back into contention.  It is beginning to feel like there may be no way to upset the very top slot of the General Classification.  There is still one climb left in this year's Dauphine and the finish is at its summit.  At this point it isn't looking like all of the efforts of Etixx-Quickstep are going to pay any dividends.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

Be sure to check out my second cycling art book, Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships, available online or through your local book seller.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807374-81-185083/Painting.html#.V12ZrfkrLIU

Dauphine, Final Stage: Here We Go Now

If any of the contenders wanted to take the Yellow Jersey away from Chris Froome (Sky) they were going to have to attack on the penultimate climb up the Col du Noyer.  Etixx-Quickstep had been laying the ground work across the valley before turning onto the mountain road, but it was Alberto Contador (Tinkoff) who was the first to strike out in hopes of reclaiming his leader's jersey that he put on after the Prologue.  The first to try to go with the Spaniard was Pierre Rolland (Cannondale), but he just doesn't have Contador's explosive climbing abilities.  Etixx-Quickstep didn't panic, they just kept on keeping on.  Froome didn't react immediately either, but then that is the metronome style of Team Sky.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

Be sure to check out my second cycling art book, Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships, available online or through your local book seller.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807371-80-185083/Painting.html#.V12V6fkrLIU

Dauphine, Final Stage: All Strung Out

You don't need a speedometer to tell when the peloton is going full speed, you just have to look at its shape.  When it is in a long thin line, it means the guys on the front are hammering!  Etixx-Quickstep went into the final stage with a plan.  The team had Dan Martin sitting fourth overall, and Julian Alaphilippe was sixth while wearing the White Jersey of best young rider.  With both riders less than a minute down on the Maillot Juane of Chris Froome (Sky), they were doing their best to weaken Team Sky and the others that sat before them 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 Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

Be sure to check out my second cycling art book, Art of Cycling: Richmond 2015 UCI Road World Championships, available online or through your local book seller.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807368-79-185083/Painting.html#.V12R7vkrLIU

Dauphine, Final Stage: Fast & Efficient

Stephen Cummings (Dimension Data) traded his normal back of the peloton hang out for being way off the front today.  Cummings has been seeking a stage win all week and saw today as the day the leaders would watch each other and perhaps ignore a solo attack.  The Brit went off on his own with over 50 kilometers left to race.  Fortunately for him, he read the race correctly, given how far down in the General Classification he was, no one in the top ten was interested in putting in a serious chase. They were far more concerned about each other.

Cummings is using the rather precarious "super tuck" to make himself as aerodynamic as possible.  This seems really dicey to me, but I don't spend anywhere near the time in the saddle that these guys do.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807365-78-185083/Painting.html#.V12O-PkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 6: Everything He Had

The title of this work can apply to either Frenchman in the painting.  Romain Bardet (Ag2r La Mondiale) and his team had put everything into taking the stage with the possible side benefit of pulling on the leader's Maillot Jaune.  Unfortunately, Thibaut Pinot (FDJ) was able to hold onto every attack his countryman launched and ultimately, he claimed the stage as well.  To add insult to energy, Chris Froome (Sky) closed enough on the final climb to keep his Yellow Jersey even if Bardet had claimed the full ten second time bonus by taking the stage.  Bardet could consul himself knowing that he was now tied for second place just seven seconds down on the leader of Team Sky.  With just seconds separating the top five placings the stage is set for some very exciting racing on the final stage of this running of the Criterium du Dauphine!

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807227-77-185083/Painting.html#.V1z1CPkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 6: A Very Elite Group

Giving chase to the only two that were still up the road gaining time was a very elite group, a veritable whose who in the 2016 ProTour.  While the threesome on Team Sky was on the front, followed by the duo from BMC were Alperto Contador (Tinkoff) the rest of this prestigious group included Dan Martin & Julian Alaphilippe (Etixx-Quickstep), Diego Rosa (Astana), Daniel Navarro (Cofidis) and Pierre Rolland (Cannondale).  Ironically, both Navarro and Rolland lost the wheels of the group as soon as I completed this painting.  Apparently, Team Sky was upping the ante to be in this elite group.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807224-76-185083/Painting.html#.V1zxYPkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 6: Left to Chase

The reduced peloton lead by Mikel Landa, Sergio Henao and the Yellow Jersey of Chris Froome was gaining on those up the road.  At least, they were until Romain Bardet launched his final attack.  Froome knew that he had a minute and 52 seconds on the Frenchman riding for Ag2r, but he had to keep chasing.  Tucked onto Froome's wheel were the three riders just behind him on the General Classification, and they were riding in the placing order as well.  Richie Porte (BMC), Alberto Contador (Tinkoff) and Dan Martin (Etixx-Quickstep) all shared Froome's desire to pull back the brown and pale blue clad Bardet.  The slopes of Meribel were stacking up to deliver the excitement everyone was expecting on the penultimate stage of the Dauphine.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807218-75-185083/Painting.html#.V1zudvkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 6: Bardet Attacks!

Romain Bardet and his team, Ag2r La Mondiale, went into the Queen stage of the 68th Criterium du Dauphine with a plan, that this attack was the penultimate step in its realization.  Bardet had used his loyal teammates to perfect and with just 10 kilometers of up hill racing to go, the Frenchman jumped free of his break away companions and went for it all.  Bardet had been telling the press that his chances of the overall were finished, however at this point, he was the Virtual Yellow Jersey on the road.  Desperately trying to cover his countryman's move was the leader of FDJ, Thibaut Pinot.  Behind the two Frenchmen was George Bennett (LottoNL Jumbo) hoping to move himself up on GC using the wheels of those setting the race afire.

If I may speak art for a moment.  I tried something new in this painting, laying in a background of a bright yellow-green before laying in the pine trees over laying the glowing valley.  The technique is similar to Vincent Van Gogh's attempts to capture the light of the south of France and the dawn of Impressionism.  I must admit that I am rather satisfied with the result.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807215-74-185083/Painting.html#.V1zrfPkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 6: A Veteran's Advice

The first to attack on the Col de la Madeleine was the young rider from Astana, Fabio Aru.  You may remember that he went late on Stage 3 and managed to hold off the whole of the peloton.  However, today he just seemed to have nothing in his legs.  He had the loyal super domestique, Luis Leon Sanchez, who stayed with him through both the waxing and waning on the stage thus far.  As the peloton closed on the duo, Sanchez took the time to explain why Aru may not have eaten enough.  It almost look as Aru dutifully dug into his jersey pocket for a energy bar.  Behind the duo, Tony Martin (Etixx-Quickstep) was closing fast in the super aero-tuck with all of the major players tight on his wheel.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2807206-73-185083/Painting.html#.V1zoN_krLIU

Dauphine, Stage 6: Pushing Through the Pain

With Ag2r La Mondiale on the front of the break pushing the pace up the Montee des Frasses, Ben Hermans (BMC) was pushing through the pain.  This group that also included Jurgen van den Broeck (Katusha) where on their fourth climb of the day, that included a Catagory 2, two Catagory 1's and an Haute Catagory.  There was still the final ascent up the Catagory climb of Mirabel to finish the day.  Hermans was hoping to be well placed to help his team leader, Richie Porte on the final ascent of Stage 6.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2806861-72-185083/Painting.html#.V1xkUvkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 6: Breaking the Race Apart

While I understand that broadcasters only have so much time in the schedule to show all of the great events going on around the world, I sure wish I could have seen the battle that took place on the climb of the Col de la Madeleine.  Plus, that is a very beautiful climb when watch on a video screen (although I do hope to ride up it someday).  On the way up, Romain Bardet (Ag2r) hatched their plan that they hoped would put him into the Yellow Jersey by the end of the day.  Bardet took two of his teammates with him in the attack, Jan Bakelants and Mikael Cherel.  The other rider who was looking to get the jump on the peloton was Fabio Aru (Astana) who had the able assistance of his teammate, Luis Leon Sanchez.  Sanchez is encouraging Bakelants to push the pace to their mutual benefit.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2806840-71-185083/Painting.html#.V1xgVvkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 5, Sprinting for Third

With the final step of the podium still up for grabs, this trio comprised of Dan Martin (Etixx-Quickstep), Adam Yates (Orica-GreenEdge) and the Yellow Jersey of Alberto Contador (Tinkoff) sprinted as hard as the over climbed legs could go.  Martin was hoping to move himself higher in the GC and to represent the team since Julian Alaphilippe (Etixx-Quickstep) was suffering further down the mountain.  Yates also hoped to move up and was able to just nip the third slot from Martin at the line.  Of course, Contador was hoping to minimize his loses on the day.  He had been claiming that he did not want to wear the leader's jersey throughout the race, but he has made it a little difficult to reclaim it from a very on form Froome.

Ultimately, Martin moved himself into 4th place just 37 seconds back and Yates slid into 6th looking for 52 seconds.  With 2 more stages to race and eleven more climbs to surmount this race is hardly decided.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2806627-70-185083/Painting.html#.V1vDPvkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 5: Dropping Them All

The only man able to follow the accelerations of Chris Froome (Team Sky) was his former teammate, Richie Porte (BMC).  The pair having left Alberto Contador behind, knew that one of them would be the new leader of the 68th Criterium du Dauphine.  Froome started the day two seconds ahead of Porte, so Porte had do take the stage and the 10 second bonus.  Unfortunately for the Aussie, he wasn't able to shake the lanky Brit and finally was unable to hold tight to the carbon wheels of his adversary.  Froome claimed the stage and the leader's jersey while Porte is left in second place without his borrowed Polka Dot Jersey looking to try and gain back seven seconds on his former teammate.  Contador dropped to third, now a full 27 seconds in arrears.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2806624-69-185083/Painting.html#.V1vAgPkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 5: Attacking the Jerseys

As if reading off the same script as the announcer for the US broadcast, Chris Froome was the next Team Sky rider to attack the peloton.  Froome's move was quickly joined by the Yellow Jersey of Alberto Contador (Tinkoff) and the Polka Dot Jersey of Richie Porte (BMC), although technically, the Polka Dot Jersey belongs to Contador as well.  The third rider to go with the acceleration was Romain Bardet (Ag2r La Mondiale).  Early, Froome had been feigning having a bad day, a trick once employed by Lance Armstrong, let's hope that is the only trick of Armstrong's that Froome copying.

Off camera on the earlier climbs, Daniel Teklehaimanet (Dimension Data) had amassed enough KOM points to claim the Polka Dot Jersey for himself, regards of the outcome at the summit in Vaujany.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2806618-68-185083/Painting.html#.V1u9__krLIU

Dauphine, Stage 5: Out of the Saddle

The first man to jump out of the severely reduced peloton was the Spaniard, Mikel Landa (Sky).  His attack could be seen as a softening blow for Team Sky, or a way for his team leader, Chris Froome, to sit in. Whatever the tactic, Landa quickly open up a sizable gap and may shortly catch the remnants of the breakaway that was falling apart up the road.  This final climb had some beautiful vistas.  I have always wonder just how much pleasure the racers can take in their stunning surroundings.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2806615-67-185083/Painting.html#.V1u67_krLIU

Dauphine, Stage 5: Their Turn to Chase

With the final climb up to Vaujany just ahead, FDJ was working to get their team leader, Thibaut Pinot, in the best position for the start of the ascent.  With the five riders still up the road, the first step was to pull them back into the peloton.  I had the pleasure of meeting Jeremy Roy (FDJ) when he was in Richmond, Virginia for the UCI World Road Racing Championships.  I was hoping to confirm that he was one of those on the front of the peloton,  Alas, I am just not certain he was one of these three in "Bleu, Blanche et Rouge."

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2806609-66-185083/Painting.html#.V1u4MfkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 5: You've Done Good

Teams bring eight riders to the Criterium du Dauphine, each with a particular job to do, each with a 'particular set of skills.'  For Tinkoff, Sergio Paulinho, his job was to set the fastest possible pace on the front of the peloton for as long as possible.  Once he had done all that he could do, he swung off the peloton and dropped back through the group.  As his teammate, Michael Valgren Andersen, road pass him he reached out and patted his exhausted friends shoulder, telling him that he had, "Done good."  Riding to the right of the pair from Tinkoff is the former winner of the Giro d'Italia, Ryder Hesjedal (Trek-Segafredo), the man with the best name in professional cycling (well first name anyway).

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2806606-65-185083/Painting.html#.V1u1RPkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 5: The Flat Before the Climb

While the race had already been over six categorized climbs, it was still the flat piece of road before the final climb of the day.  At least once they summit the next climb, they will have almost twenty hours before they will have to ride up another mountain.  This was the last of those that had formed the early break of over twenty riders, this quintet was comprised of Cyril Gautier (Ag2r La Mondiale), Dayer Quintana (Movistar), Andriy Grivko (Astana), Bartosz Huzarski (Bora-Argon 18) and Enrico Gesparotto (Wanty-Groupe Gobert).  At this point they still had roughly two minutes on those behind, but the 15 kilometers of climbing to come could eat that time up rather quickly.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2806603-64-185083/Painting.html#.V1uxNvkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 4: A Power Sprint

The uphill sprint was tailor made for the power sprinter from Team Dimension Data, Marcus Burghardt.  The Norwegian Champion was thrilled to raise his arm in a victory salute as he claimed his first stage victory in the 68th Criterium du Dauphine.  Out of the frame of this painting was the wearer of the White Jersey of Best Young Rider, Julian Alaphilippe (Etixx-Quickstep) who finished second on the stage.  Finishing out the podium placings was the Green Jerseyed Nacer Bouhanni (Cofidis), who was less than pleased with his result.  Alas, Greg Van Avermaet (BMC) was washed away along with the South African, Daryl Impey (Orica-GreenEdge).

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2805700-63-185083/Painting.html#.V1pGPPkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 4: Cornering for Home

With just meters left to race the entire peloton was elbowing their way through the final corner.  Once they straighten up from this hard lean, it was time to sprint in earnest.  Leading them through the corner was the strong man from BMC, Greg Van Avermaet,  Rubbing shoulders with the Belgium on the Swiss team was Daryl Impey (Orica-GreenEdge) and next to him, the Norwegian Champion, Edvald Boasson Hagen (Dimension Data).  Tucked in behind Van Avermaet was the fast man from Giant-Alpecin, John Degenkolb.  From here it looked like it was going to be the man from BMC at the line.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2805694-62-185083/Painting.html#.V1pDE_krLIU

Dauphine, Stage 4: Leading the Chase

With just one rider left to catch, Marcus Burghardt (BMC) went to the front and led the chase to pull Maxime Bouet (Etixx-Quickstep).  Tucked onto the wheel in his borrowed Polka Dot Jersey of the King of the Mountains is his teammate, Richie Porte.  Behind the BMC duo was the lead out train for Orica-GreenEdge headed up by Christian Meier.  Behind them was the start of Nacer Bouhanni's Cofidis lead out.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2805682-61-185083/Painting.html#.V1pAG_krLIU

Dauphine, Stage 4: Leaving the Others Behind

Maxime Bouet (Etixx-Quickstep) proves the old axiom that the third time is the charm.  This was the third time Bouet had attack his break away companions, 'Frederik Veuchelen (Wnaty-Groupe Govert) and Bryan Naulleau (Direct Energie).  Each time Veuchelen was able to chase the fleeing Frenchman down.  However this time, Bouet finally broke the elastic that held him to his compatriots.  With just thirty seconds on the closing peloton, it may be a little late to go on the solo flyer.  However, it was about the same point in the race yesterday when Fabio Aru (Astana) pulled of the same feet successfully.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2805436-60-185083/Painting.html#.V1nWkvkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 4: Inside the Peloton

Today was the first time I have seen rider mounted cameras sharing real time video from inside the peloton.  Kenneth Van Bielsen (Cofidis) had a small light camera mounted just under his stem and bike computer that was able to bounce the signal up to the satellite just like the TV Motos.  The low angle shot kind of features the butts of the riders, but then it is a view that I am familiar with.  Van Bielsen was tucked in behind Guillaume Martin and Bjorn Thurau (both Wanty-Groupe Gobert) as well as the leader of Ag2r La Mondiale, Romain Bardet.  This camera really gives the feel of what it is like to ride in a large group on the road.  Bravo, Dimension Data!

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2805424-59-185083/Painting.html#.V1nQ_fkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 4: On to the Bell Lap

The break away was the first to hear the bell ringing for the start of the 30 kilometer circuit around the town of Belley.  It was Frederick Veuchelen (Wanty-Groupe Gobert) who lead the break out onto the single lap.  The riders will all have a chance to preview the small rise up to the finishing line prior to having to sprint for the stage win.  The climb will open the door for a puncheur to get a jump on the traditional sprinters.  It is the kind of finale that would be perfect for the talents of Peter Sagan (Tinkoff) but alas, he isn't racing this Criterium du Dauphine.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2805409-58-185083/Painting.html#.V1nEIPkrLIU

Dauphine, Stage 4: Just Tooling Along

True to form the fourth stage of the Criterium du Dauphine featured and early break, and yet again Wanty-Groupe Gobert was represented.  This time it was the Belgium rider, Frederik Veuchelen.  The others that made up the trio were, Maxime Bouet (Etixx-Quickstep) and Bryan Nauleau (Direct Energie).  While the threesome were way to far down the general classification to effect the leader board, today's stage may be the final chance for the sprinters to show their stuff.  Therefore it is unlikely that they will be allow to stay away to the line.  I image that several of the fast men were still angry at themselves for letting Fabio Aru (Astana) pull off a solo dash to victory yesterday.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2805388-57-185083/Painting.html#.V1nBG_krLIU

Dauphine, Stage 3: They Left It too Late

To the dismay of the peloton and the sprinter's who managed to get over the final climb with the group, Fabio Aru (Astana) managed to hold everyone off.  With one last look behind he could tell that he had time to offer a victory salute.  Chasing as hard as they could, even opening up their sprints sooner than they would like, John Degenkolb (Giant-Alpecin), Edvald Boasson Hagen (Dimension Data) and the rest couldn't get up to the daring Italian.  Chapeau, Aru!

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804848-56-185083/Painting.html#.V1hqEZErLIU

Daupine, Stage 3: Hoping to Stay Away

Once the peloton had reeled in the escape of Tony Martin (Etixx-Quickstep), it was Fabio Aru's (Astana) turn to have a go at a long solo effort to the line.  Aru was joined by Mikel Landa (Sky) and a rider from Lotto Soudal, but neither had the strength to hold onto the Italian's wheel.  Aru didn't not have the best Prologue, so he is a ways back on the overall general classification, but he certainly felt the basically down hill run to the finish suit his bike handling skills.  It takes a rather strong dose of fearlessness to race at this level, so have an extra share.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804818-55-185083/Painting.html#.V1hmtJErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 3: Going Long

The former three time World Time Trial Champion, Tony Martin (Etixx-Quickstep), like the odds of riding alone for the final twenty kilometers of the race.  So on the final climb up the Cote de Secheras he jumped free from the peloton and went off in search of stage glory.  Plus with Martin up the road, Etixx-Quickstep and their leader, Julian Alaphilippe (wearing the White Jersey of best young rider) didn't have to contribute to the chase.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804815-54-185083/Painting.html#.V1hkl5ErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 3: One Climb too Many

The final climb of the day saw the peloton driving hard at the front, most likely to shuck the sprinters and their lead out trains.  Apparently, it was working.  One of those to drop off the back (he was hardly alone) was Kris Boeckmans (Lotto Soudal).  I have had the honor of being commissioned to paint Boeckmans winning in Belgium, so I felt I should show the other side of racing.  Chapeau, Kris, on your recovery!

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804803-53-185083/Painting.html#.V1hiCZErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 3: Not Fast Enough

Dimtri Claeys (Wanty-Groupe Gobert) wasn't happy with the effort nor the speed that his fellow break away riders were putting in.  He swung over to the right side of the road, looking hard into the eyes of his compatriots, trying to ascertain whether it was lack of desire or lack of energy that held them back.  Leading the rest of the group was the Frenchman, Cyril Gautier (Ag2r) followed by Thomas De Gendt (Lotto Soudal) and the champion of the Netherlands, Niki Terpstra (Etixx-Quickstep).  At this point the peloton had closed to within a minute and a half of this foursome.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804797-52-185083/Painting.html#.V1hgTZErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 2: A Clear Victory

Many had tried and failed to get away from the clutches of the peloton, including the eventual winners teammate, Ruben Fernandez (Movistar).  But the peloton just caught the remnants of the breakaway allowing Jesus Herrada (Movistar) to out sprint the tiring Tony Gallopin (Lotto Soudal) and Serge Pauwels (Dimension Data).  Yet again, the results of the stage did not change the over all standings that were established in the opening prologue.  Although the time gaps in the lower half of the top ten have shifted just a bit.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804602-51-185083/Painting.html#.V1eZeJErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 2: Catching Up

Alexis Gougeard (Ag2r La Mondiale) must have been rather disappointed to look over his shoulder to see riders (and quite a few motorcycles).  His fellow countryman, Tony Gallopin (Lotto Soudal), was leading a quartet of riders up to his wheel including two he had dropped earlier, Lilian Caleneiane (Direct Energie) and Bartosz Huzarski (Bora-Argon 18).  However, just another 30 seconds behind them was the balance of the peloton containing all of the contenders for the overall victory including race leader, Alberto Contador (Tinkoff).

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804599-50-185083/Painting.html#.V1eWG5ErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 2: Over Alone

Alexis Gougeard (Ag2r La Mondiale) pressed on with his escape from the rest of the break away, leaving Bartosz Huzarski behind as well.  The Frenchman was the first to reach the penultimate summit alone.  He was greeted by fans and a large French flag draped over the hedge on the side of the road.  Too far down in the King of the Mountains competition, Gougeard was more interested in the final summit and victory on the day.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804593-49-185083/Painting.html#.V1eTMpErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 2: Let's Go Get 'Em

Looking back over his shoulder, Lilian Caleneiane (Direct Energie) seemed to call to Daniel Teklehaimanet (Dimension Data) and Jack Bauer (Cannondale), "Let's go get 'em!"  The threesome had just been dropped by their earlier compatriots on the climbe up the Cote de Saint Georges-en-Couzan.  Leaving them behind was Alexis Gougeard (Ag2r La Mondiale) and Bartosz Huzarski (Bora-Argon 18).  Teklehaimanet had ridden over the first to climbs claiming maximum points in the King of the Mountain competition, but losing the leaders on the third climb would mean the Eritrean wouldn't claim the Polka Dot Jersey 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 Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804581-48-185083/Painting.html#.V1eQVJErLIU

Dauphine: Stage 2, Holding onto the Tail

As the peloton started up the penultimate climb of the day, although it should be said that there was no real down hill before the final climb to the finish line, the sprinters started sliding to the back of the pack.  Nacer Bouhanni (Cofidis) resplendent in his Green (Points Leader) skinsuit was one of those that wasn't happy with the climbs to come.  Joining him at the rear of the peloton was Stephen Cummings (Dimension Data) and Daryl Impey (Orica-GreenEdge).  It wasn't long before they, and quite a few other riders, started falling off the back and into the Grupetto.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804566-47-185083/Painting.html#.V1eMo5ErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 1: Fighting for the Victory

Even with Haimar Zubeldia (Trek-Segafredo) trying to calm things down a bit, the lead up to the sprint got rather dodgie.  Sprinters need to be fearless and agressive, but today there were quite a few elbows flying and helmets butting.  It is frequently said that so-n-so sprinter was fighting for such-n-such rider's wheel, today short of actually throwing punches, Alexander Kristoff (Katusha) and Nacer Bouhanni (Cofidis) were fighting it out for the Katusha lead out train.  Bouhanni used his experience as an amateur boxer and his legs to get through to claim the first stage of the 2016 Criterium du Dauphine.  Coming up short behind the diminutive Frenchman were Jens Debusschere (Lotto Soudal), Sam Bennett (Bora-Argon), Jonas Van Genechten (IAM Cycling) and Daryl Impey (Orica-GreenEdge).  Despite the victories, the over all classification's top ten remained unchanged from the results of the Prologue Individual Time Trial.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804062-46-185083/Painting.html#.V1ZLR5ErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 1: Calming It Down

With just over six kilometers left until the finish of the stage, the peloton kept ramping up the speed.  With the speed, turns and traffic furniture the race was getting progressively more dangerous.  It was one of the elder statesmen of the peloton, Haimar Zubeldia (Trek-Segafredo) went to the front of the charging group and called for them to calm it down.  Or perhaps it was his teammate, Fumiyuki Beppu, who was the target of his calming gesture.  Regardless of whom he was signaling, the peloton did get to the line with everyone staying upright.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804053-45-185083/Painting.html#.V1ZHaZErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 1: How Much?

Frederik Backaert (Wanty-Groupe Gobert) pressed on with the break, even after his compatriot, Mitch Docker (Orica-GreenEdge) threw in the towel.  One member of the rolling caravan is the team that keeps the time gaps on a chalkboard.  The bright yellow clad riders move from group to group showing each the time gaps on the road.  Admittedly, the directors sportif on the other end of the two way radios in each rider's ear can easily relay the same information, old tradition do die hard.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804047-44-185083/Painting.html#.V1ZDspErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 1: Scratching His Head

Today's stage was 168 kilometers long, plenty enough time to get rather uncomfortable.  I certainly would be.  Add the distance to the heat of the day and one could find a sweaty head getting rather itchy.  Tom Jelte Slagter (Cannondale) took the calm moments in the peloton to remove his helmet, scratch his head, and then suit back up for battle.  The peloton is full of many nationalities including the Spaniard. Joaquim Rodriguez and his Austrian teammate, Marco Haller (Katusha), riding shoulder to shoulder with Luis Leon Sanchez (Astana) and the Italian on the Spanish team Daniel Moreno (Movistar).  This sport of power, speed, endurance and beauty is truly and international endeavor.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804044-43-185083/Painting.html#.V1ZAxZErLIU

Dauphine, Stage 1: Keeping Them in Check

The first part of the day included some relatively small climbs but the last thirty kilometers was going to be flat and straight.  With that kind of terrain it was sure to be a day for the sprinters.  But with two guys still up the road, their teams had to go to the front and pull the escapees back.  Cofidis put one man on the front on behalf of Nacer Bouhanni, likewise Giant-Alpecin for John Degenkolb and Katusha for Alexander Kristoff.  Just behind the sprinters' representatives where the teammates of the Yellow Jersey, Alberto Contador (Tinkoff).  They were there to keep their man safe from crashes or surprise splits in the peloton.

This is a small original watercolor and ink painting that was created using Yarka St. Petersburg watercolors and Steve Quiller brushes from Jack Richeson & Company.  This painting, along with all of my cycling art, is available through my artist website at www.greigleach.com.  While you are on the site, be sure to check out my other works of art and my two cycling books.  To purchase this particular painting, just follow the direct link at the end of this post.  Bear in mind that this is a one of a kind original and once it is gone, it is gone.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-multi-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2804041-42-185083/Painting.html#.V1Y-HZErLIU