stages to watch

I'm aware that not all FGBC are as geekily dedicated to watching the Tour daily as I am. So as a public service to those who might be considering watching a day or two, I offer up some key stages.

1) Saturday, July 7 - Time Trial: the first big shakeup of the GC standings
2) Wednesday, July 12 - this is the first mountain stage, which could prove significant. But since the last 40 kms are downhill, things may come together before the end.
3) Thursday, July 13 - This stage ends with a long uphill finish, and includes 4 cat 1 climbs, plus one that is rated HC (beyond classification). If Lance were still racing, this is where he'd make a decisive statement.
4) Tuesday, July 18 - L'Aple d'Huez: a legendary climb. Everyone dreams of winning here.
5) Wednesday, July 19 - final uphill finish stage: last big chance for the climbers to gain some time, though the next stage might provide some opportunities as well, with the HC Col de Joux-Plane just 12 km from the finish in Morzine.
6) Saturday, July 22 - final TT on the 2nd last day. If things stay relatively close, which they are likely to do, this is where it all gets settled.

After a week to get the legs warmed up, it all starts tomorrow.

And of course, another article on Floyd.