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Showing posts from June, 2023

2023 Men's Tour de France Preview

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 It's the most wonderful time of the year... The Tour de France is phenomenon that needs no explanation, but it usually looks something like the following: The group of the malliot jaune climbing L'Alpe d'Huez in 2018 -- how many countries' flags do you see represented?                                             This year's route covers 3,404 kilometers over the standard 21 stages. It starts in the Basque Countries and finishes in Paris...as usual. Here's the map: The 2023 Men's Tour de France route in all its glory My Key Stages  In contrast to most years, the first week is quite difficult, not unexpected given that the race begins the Basque Country. The first two stages are reminiscent of what one might see in Itzulia, especially given the inclusion of the Jaizkibel climb on stage 2. Any rider who comes in undercooked in the first week could easily be 'found out' before the race even enters France, and those of Basque descent and in possessi