Stage 1 Tour Down Under 2013.Greipel!

It was planned and executed to perfection, and Andre Greipel finished it off brilliantly with another powerful sprint to the line taking Stage 1 of the Santos Tour Down Under.

The stage through the picturesque Adelaide Hills from Prospect to Lobethal was an exciting one. Young Uni SA rider Jordan Kerby broke away early to lead for over 100km of the race including through the first passing of the finish line. Then the attacks started with Jerome Pineau heading away followed closely by current world champion Philippe Gilbert. However once the final kilometers closed in the teams organised themselves and the peloton caught the leaders ready for a final bunch sprint.

It would be a simple, text book lead out by Lotto-Belisol that delivered Greipel to the line, for his 12th stage win at the Tour Down Under, equaling our own Robbie McEwen's record.

Personally I love to see Greipel winning. When he is let loose with the finish line in site his strength and power is remarkable, and very hard to beat. He is a colourful and genuine character and a favourite here Down Under.

Here are a few snap shots of stage 1.

Greipel!!!!!

 

 

 

Tomorrow Stage 2 takes us from Mt. Barker through to Rostrevor which will see the riders tackle one of Adelaide's steepest hill - Corkscrew Road. It will be the first time the steep ascent has been included in the Tour Down Under and will certainly throw a few spanners in the cogs for some of the riders!