N TEN CITY

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Intense? The word only partially describes just how nerve rackng a 3 week stage race can be, for viewer and rider alike. Something can happen at any moment that can either completely change the complexion or the outcome of an event like this. If you let your guard down for one moment your Tour can either be over or in the very least you can can be relegated to a spectator. The crashes so far have not done major damage but one rider abandoned after only 1'45" due to a crash and I think he actually went through the back window of a team car. There is no doubt in my mind that the peleton will leave it too late on one of the flat stages and the breakaway will succeed. I was able to watch the Grand Depart online Sunday morning before the TV coverage began. VERSUS, (aka OLN) has done a commendable job with the broadcast might I add. I still have not been able to choose a clear favorite and it probably won't happen until after the first venture into the mountains. But the pure speed on the flat stages is captivating. Oh to be 20 years old again and able to get a job cycling professionally. There is no better way to see Europe.