Follow Dan on Twitter: @McLAYDan and on Instagram: @McLAYDan
Stage 5 was the first really hilly stage of this year's tour. The 216KM from Limoges > Le Lioran took in no less than six categorised climbs - with five of them in the final 70KM.
Once the break of the day was established no teams seemed especially interested in controlling the gap - which went up to around 15 minutes at one point.
After a very eventful first few days for Dan, he was content to take up residence in the autobus together with the rest of the sprinters. The gruppetto were guided home within the time limit by Bernie Eisel of Team Dimension Data, 28:34 down on the time of stage winner Greg Van Avermaet of BMC Racing Team.
Also in Blog
Known Unknowns: Part 10
The difficulties of Cav To The Tour
Mark Cavendish’s welcome return to victory has led to calls for the Briton to be selected for the Tour de France, including the #CavToTheTour push on Twitter. There is a considerable emotional appeal to him taking part, but is it practical?
Known Unknowns: Part 9
Will Roglič’s race-free preparation secure Tour de France victory?
Earlier this week l’Equipe reported that last year’s Tour runner-up Primož Roglič would have a two month break from racing prior to the French event. That approach goes against the trend of all recent Tour winners, yet Jumbo-Visma believes that this route is the best one to take. Is the team right?
Known Unknowns: Part 8
What will WADA find in British Cycling investigation?
The Richard Freeman investigation may have concluded, but there is a sense that questions about British Cycling may only be multiplying. As WADA begins to delve into the federation’s past, Conquista speaks to one whistleblower about his ongoing concerns and where he believes previous enquiries have fallen short.