In the penultimate stage of the 2011 Tour de France, Cadel Evans domanited in the Individual Time Trial, taking time back from Frank and Andy Schleck and coming in second after Tony Martin to secure the Yellow Jersey.
57 seconds behind in position three in the general classification after the Alpe d’Huez stage the challenge of Cadel Evans was to win back the 57 seconds and make up time finishing second overall in the stage. Frank and Andy Schleck, not know for their time trialling were evidently tired after the last few race days and as Team BMC Racing rider Cadel Evans has done throughout this years tour he has riden with determination to achieve an overall 1 minute 34 second lead over Andy Schleck with Team Leopard team mate and brother Frank Schleck in third at 2 minutes 30 seconds behind.
In the final stage into Paris to the finish line on the Champs-?lys?e, traditionally the yellow jersey holder is not challenged and it is a sprint stage so while the win in not confirmed, it is certain.
Cadel asks for sun as he rides down the Champs-?lys?e to become the first Australian cyclist in history to win the Tour de France after two second place finishes in the Tour de France (2007 & 2008).
The word is out that a Public Holiday could be on the cards to celebrate this monumental victory which will inevitably drive the interest and popularity of cycling in Australia.
Well done Cadel Evans!!
Photo ? BMC/Tim de Waele