Home

Tour of MO Stage 4 finish in Rolla

Submitted by MoBikeFed Admin on Thu, 09/11/2008 - 4:58am
Rolla had a tremendous crowd out for the finish today. I didn't think the crowd was so big until I took a stroll around the circuit course at the finish--a unique figure-8 arrangement about 2 miles long. Most often fans concentrate very strongly at the finish line, but here the fans lined the route quite evenly all the way around--because with the circuit design there were lots of great spots to watch the race.

Perhaps the best spot was on or under the overpass at the center of the figure 8, where fans could see the riders go past above & below on each of the three circuits.

The race itself was really amazing, with the field arriving in at least 5 distinct groups--strung out in a way you more typically see in something like a mountain stage of the Tour de France. The race was also very fast, averaging over 29 MPH over the 95-mile course.

After the race, some motorcycle enthusiasts in Rolla set up a special reception for the many motorcycle riders who accompany the tour, acting as marshals, ferrying tv and photo camera operators, and performing other vital functions--what a great idea!

Complete photos here & slideshow here from the Stage 4 finish in Rolla. Some photo highlights:


Chase 1 near the finish of Stage 4 in Rolla
Tags:

Join MoBikeFed's Advocacy Network

MoBikeFed is a statewide group of people like you, working together for better bicycling, walking, and trails in Missouri. When you join our advocacy network you receive occasional important advocacy alerts and bicycle, pedestrian, and trails news from around Missouri.

Working together we make a real difference! Join our advocacy network:

Want better bicycling and walking in Missouri?
We rely on the support of members like you.  Please join, renew, or donate today.