Bonjour! Stage 18 – First day in the Alps! There were significant and notorious climbs today, including the Col du Izouard and the Gol du Galibier. The scenery was breathtaking at times and strangely surreal at others, with the grey, mauve and ochre earth giving great colour.
In the race, the day belonged to Colombia – a lovely surprise in this ever-surprising race. The win went to Nairo Quintana who has had a quiet race until today. He soared to victory, followed swiftly by Roman Bardet, who took the Polka Dot jersey. Both men looked much happier than they did in the Pyrenees!
The highlight for me, was the descent on the Col du Galibier – the climb was brutal but the descent looked worse – and all the riders were exceptional coming down. Not only fast but a long descent, so their control was phenomenal to see. Colombian fans lined the route and had not only the reward of Quintana’s stage win but witnessed a terrific challenge from Egan Bernal – what a fabulous talent he is!
It was a fantastic stage – and with only two days to go, the race seems wide open! Here are my pictures 🙂
Click on an image to see in full – Medium and measurements are listed below. Click here if you wish to enquire further
All images copyright Maxine Dodd.
For in-depth race analysis, delivered with fun and wit, I highly recommend ‘Velovoices’ but don’t forget to come back to ‘Racing Lines’ for the pictures!
Have a great day! 🙂
Maxine Dodd art 