Posted on May 3, 2019
Hello! The Women’s race got underway in Barnsley on another cold and wet day. These drawings were made in real time, which I prefer – No hanging about!
The race has attracted some of the World’s best riders, including Word Champions and Olympians, reinforcing the reputation of this race.
Lizzie Banks from Sheffield made a very strong start, securing Queen of the Mountains and eventually forming a breakaway partnership with Leah Dixon.
Later, the two became six before the final push to the finish in Bedale.
The final push saw a phenomenal finish by Lorena Wiebes – she broke away so fast to cross the line. Very impressive!
ALL IMAGES COPYRIGHT MAXINE DODD
Don’t forget to catch up with full analysis of the racing on www.velovoices.com
Posted on May 3, 2019
Hello! Well, the forecast came true – the opening stage of this year’s race was mostly very, very wet!
Still the colour shone out and people came out to encourage and support the riders. It’s always a remarkable sight.
In the race itself, British rider Jacob Hennessy made a good start, taking the King of the Mountains jersey, while Mark Cavendish looked well after his recent illness and finished eigth. Chris Froome made a more discreet opening, finishing in the pack.
The stage win came brilliantly for Dutchman Jesper Asselman, who, suitably for the conditions, stormed past everyone, gathering a Yorkshire flag on the way. The expression on his face was amazing – such a great effort – which I’ve tried to capture here. With apologies to Bob Dylan for the adapted title, but it was crying out!
On Friday, the Women’s race starts as well as the men’s, so an absorbing day to come!
ALL IMAGES COPYRIGHT MAXINE DODD
Don’t forget to catch up with full analysis of the racing on www.velovoices.com