The year’s cycling races see the members of the international elite pack come together on a constant search for diversity, in terms of terrain, climate and media exposure. The Tour of Picardy, with its specific sporting nature, is a perfect illustration of the necessity to have such variety on the cycling calendar.

 

Following its 68thedition, its future is most likely to be ensured by the local and regional authorities that have always supported the race (Picardy Regional Council and the Aisne, Oise and Somme county councils), whilst A.S.O., which has organised the event for the last 15 years, is keen to provide its assistance in several domains to the structure that will take on responsibility for the race. This passing on of the baton is destined to provide the Tour of Picardy with the possibility of a new start in an economic environment that is better adapted to its format.

 

Whilst the event is readying itself for a transitional period, it will however be a fine vintage that the riders should serve to the spectators of Picardy over the three stages on the programme, mainly designed for sprinters, but on which the most valiant of attackers should be able to express themselves.

 

In this context, one of the most lively and efficient of their number has chosen to be present in Picardy: Philippe Gilbert assuredly has the skill and intelligence to catch out or grind down the sprinters’ teams.

 

However, it should be noted that the French teams have named their leading sprint specialists in their squads in order to fine-tune their form: this will be the case for FDJ with local boy Arnaud Démare, but also for Europcar with Bryan Coquard, who finished 2nd last year.

 

Nevertheless, the French team will not enjoy a free rein, because Omega Pharma Quick Step will be counting on Gert Steegmans and GianniMeersman, who can also claim to be favourites for victory.

 

·         Friday 16th May, stage 1: Fort-Mahon-Plage - Estrées-Saint-Denis, 191 km

·         Saturday 17th May, stage 2: Mouy - Beaurieux-Chemin des Dames, 176.5 km

·         Sunday 18th May, stage 3: Cap’Aisne-Chamouille - Bray-sur-Somme, 170.5 km