Day 139 - Maillot Jaune

Today is the final stage of the Tour de France, when for a second year in succession, a British rider will cycle up the Champs-Elysées in the Yellow Jersey, Maillot Jaune. Today, all being well, Chris Froome will follow Wiggins on to the top step of the podium in Paris to win the biggest prize in cycling. Froome has had a fascinating journey from his African background to Britain's new cycling star and just as I revelled in reading about Wiggo's route to winning the Tour in 2012, I'm looking forward to reading what is bound to be the next cycling autobiography to be released later in the year, Froome's Time!

73 miles covered this week.

Meanwhile, 10 hours before the final stage start today at 16:00, I woke early and, after yesterday's longer than planned circuit, decided on a much more gentle, lazy Sunday morning ride and that it was. There was no time trialling down the Axe Valley straight nor speed climbing up hills, it really was a very relaxing 8 mile circuit, taking in the sights and using the easiest gear for every incline, just enough to keep me rolling along and aerobically stimulated. What's more, this short ride out this morning secured me my greatest distance travelled in one week, so far. After my 2 week holiday and 4 week break from the AVPs, I'm now back to my peak cycling fitness, with 73 miles covered this week alone.

Stats: 8.35 mi, 46m:50s , Avg 10.7 mph, Max 24.7, 519 kcal