Ian
priscilla 1Tour de France
August 10th 2009 07:15
The peloton approaches during the sixth stage of the 96th Tour de France between Gerona and Barcelona
The Tour de France is a bicycle race known around the world. It typically has 21 days, or stages, of racing and covers not more than 3,500 kilometres (2,200 miles). The three weeks usually include two rest days. The race alternates between clockwise and anticlockwise circuits of France.
The pack rides at Aspin pass on July 12, 2009 during the 160 km ninth stage of the 2009 Tour de France
The number of teams usually varies between 20 to 22, with nine riders in each. Entry is by invitation to teams chosen by the race organiser, the Amaury Sport Organisation. Team members help each other and are followed by managers and mechanics in cars.
The peloton leaves Marseille behind during stage three
Lance Armstrong rides in the pack under heavy rains on July 17, 2009 in the thirteenth stage
Riders normally start together each day, with the first over the line winning, but some days are ridden against the clock by individuals or teams. The overall winner is usually a master of the mountains and of these time trials. Most stages are in mainland France, although it has become common to visit nearby countries. Stages can be flat, undulating or mountainous. Since 1975 the finish has been on the Champs-Élysées in Paris.
Alberto Contador of Spain after the signature ceremony before the start of the sixteenth stage
In the 2009 tour much of the media attention surrounded the return of seven time winner Lance Armstrong. However Lance has been upstaged by Alberto Contador leading from the start. Thanks to Boston.com, here are images from this year's race. See more pictures and information here.
The peloton makes its way past fields of sunflowers during stage 11 in Vatan, France
*This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article for Tour de France
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