After Mark Cavendish crashing out at the very end of Stage 1, today comes the equally sad news that Chris Froome has withdrawn from the Tour de France after crashing twice on today’s Stage 5. There goes Team Sky’s chance of winning the Tour for the third year in a row for the UK.
Poor old Froomey getting into the team car after crashing for the second time. He looks pretty banged up.
Oh well, the cycling will still be fantastic and the scenery wonderful. Allons-y!
I’m going to be glued to the box for the next 23 days watching the Tour de France. It’s doubly exciting this year—the Grand Départ and first three days are in England, and Team Sky is going for its third consecutive win for Great Britain. I’m very sad that Bradley Wiggins won’t be competing, but watching Geraint Thomas and Richie Porte and the other Team Sky members supporting defending champion Chris Froome’s bid for the title is going to be gripping, as well as Mark Cavendish riding for Omega Pharma-Quick Step.
The wonderfully-named Buttertubs Pass, which the Tour will climb later on today.
The first two days are through the beautiful Yorkshire countryside. The fantastic ITV coverage of the Tour provides great aerial views of the scenery: armchair travelling through gorgeous sunny lands.
Fingers crossed for the Manx Missile winning the stage and the first yellow jersey today.