As far as historical sporting events go, this is undoubtedly the most monumental to take place in recent years. Surrounded by unprecedented coverage, debacles, and drama, this year’s Tour De France brings an edge to professional bicycling that has completely drawn me in.
2013 marks the 100th anniversary of the legendary Tour De France and with that comes celebration and change. The Grand Départ preceding the race will display the rich history of the sport and kick everything off, while a grand celebration is expected once the race has concluded. The Tour runs from Saturday June 29th to Sunday July 21st. It will be made up of 21 stages and will cover a total distance of about 3,479 kilometers (before ratification). This includes 9 new stage towns: Porto-Vecchio, Bastia, Ajaccio, Calvi, Cagnes-sur-Mer, Saint-Gildas-des-Bois, Givors, Chorges, Annecy-Semnoz. The race will launch in Corsica for the first time.
The vast geographical changes have had a lot of buzz (mainly positive) around them. However, like most years, the hype is in the cyclists. British based Team Sky dominated last year’s race and there is good reason to believe they can do it again. Though a recent and unfortunate injury has pulled 2012 Tour De France winner and Team Sky rider Bradley Wiggins from this year’s race, there is no doubt in my mind that teammate Chris Froome has what it takes to earn the group another victory. His performance last year flashed off his dynamic hill climbing capabilities, and with years course being one of the most mountainous ever, Froome has a solid chance to shine. Then again, so do fellow cycling juggernauts Cadel Evans, Alberto Contador, and Tejay van Garderen, who pose significant threats in taking their own teams to the podium. This year’s rapidly steep course and roster of elite cyclists make it excitingly unpredictable and suspenseful. And it couldn't have come at a better time.
The 100th Tour De France, ultimately, is the next chapter. The end of an era that was smeared with mud. And possibly the beginning of a larger, evolving athleticism epicenter. A place to display the most gritty and durable riders in the entire world. The Tour De France crowns the greatest riders and teams of their time. Next up is number 100.
P.S. GO TEAM SHIMANO!!!
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