Stage 4 was the first individual time trial of the tour. This stage is a little different than your normal day of racing. In cycling circles, it is known as the “race of truth”. Each rider sets out on the course alone, and rides against the clock. No team to help.
The stage was relatively short for a time trial, only 30 km. The overwhelming favorite was Fabian Cancellara, who has won the world time trial championship in the past as well as previous Tour time trials. My personal pick for the day was David Millar, who has been gunning for this stage since it was announced.
Ultimately, it was an upset. Stefan Schumacher came out of nowhere to blow away the field. Fabian Cancellera had an ok showing, but the real winner on the day was Cadel Evans. As a GC contender, his goal was to gain time on his rivals and he did that. He’s starting to set himself apart as the favorite to win in Paris.
David Millar also had a good day, coming in 3rd behind Kim Kirchen. The American teams are having a pretty good show so far.
Tomorrow is a sprinter’s stage. I’m hoping Robbie McEwen can make something happen.