Tour Final Stage: The Bell Lap

The three men in the breakaway, including surprisingly Alejandro Valverde, are looking over to see the ringing of the bell that signals the start of the final lap of the Champs Elysees and the 100th Tour de France.  The bell lap is used in every circuit race from the small club races that I rode as a teenager to the big tours like the Giro, the Tour de France and the Veulta de Espana.  The Gendarme of France look on as the peloton closes in on the three in front of the press and VIP viewing boxes.  This is an original watercolor and ink postcard that could be yours by visiting my artist website.  Just follow the direct link at the end of this post to get your piece of the final stage of the 100th Tour de France.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-view/Tour%20de%20France%202013/2184503---186227/Painting.html#.UfKKn8_D_IU

This painting is sold.

Dauphine Stage Eight: Stripping Down

As the break away prepared to make the ascent to the finish line they shed their rain coats, capes and gloves figuring the effort of the climb would be more than enough to keep them warm.  Plus the mountain top finish removes the need to be worried about how cold it will be going down the back side of the mountain.  The peloton did the same thing, many just dropping their gear on the road figuring they would be able to pick it up again as they rode back down to their hotel rooms for the night.  And knowing that they didn't have to get up and race again in the morning probably reduce the worry of catching a cold in the rain.  This is an original watercolor and ink postcard that is available for purchase at my artist website.  Just follow the direct link at the end of this post.

http://www.greigleach.com/large-view/Criterium%20du%20Dauphine/2162047---185083/Painting.html#.UbvWq8_D_IU