Stage 18 - Pinerolo (Italy) > > > Galibier Serre-Chevalier - 200.5 km
Thursday, July 21, 2011
High Mountains - A sporting perspective
JEAN-FRANÇOIS PESCHEUX’S ANALYSIS: A record to celebrate a centenary
“We return to France and there are three very big cols on the menu. The Agnel will be tackled for the first time ever from this side, then there’s the Izoard and its legendary Casse Déserte, followed by the Galibier. This will be our chance to celebrate the centenary of this mythic climb’s first appearance on the race route back in the 1911 Tour de France. In addition, the finish, located at an altitude of 2,645 metres, will be the highest in the race’s history. It will remove from the history books the place held since 1986 by the 2,413m Col du Granon. This stage will certainly see a match-up between all those riders who are in contention for the overall title, as will the stage the following day. Whoever is leading the race runs the risk of succumbing to such physical demands.”
What a monster of a stage and with L’alp D’Huez tomorrow.
I would say today is the ultimate make or break stage, but with d’Huez tomorrow I am not sure that can be said. I think there will definately be some attacks today, but the main contenders may just try to keep things close so they don’t burn themselves out for tomorrow.
That said, while today may not determine the winner, riders could definately LOSE the tour today.