Bonjour! Stage 17 followed the rest day and marked the beginning of the final section of this year’s Tour. It was the first of four gruelling days in the Alps, with all that goes with them; dramatic scenery, gut-wrenching climbs, toe-curling descents and roads strewn round the mountains like ribbons. This stage cruelly claimed Tejay van Garderen, the American rider, in third place at the start, but he broke down and could go no further. By complete contrast, the wonderfully-bearded Simon Geschke, claimed his first Tour stage win, brilliantly climbing and descending to the finish. In the race within the race, there was great riding and sportsmanship between Nairo Quintana and Chris Froome who battled to the finish line. Sky keep the yellow but they can’t lose concentration for one minute! What a start to the finish? Simply amazing! Here are my drawings:

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Enough, Tejay, Stage 17

Thibaut Pinot accelerates again! Stage 17

Fans on the mountains! Stage 17

On the edge! Stage 17

Simon Geschke, just got to get down the mountain! Stage 17

Froome and Quintana, going all out, Stage 17

In case you were wondering… all the paintings are original and for sale. To find out more about them and how to buy, click here or Picture Information

ALL IMAGES COPYRIGHT MAXINE DODD