Chapaeu Geraint Thomas!

After preparations marred by a crash before Le Tour, the defending champion has ridden a low-key race, mentioned only rarely by TV commentators and being given equal status in his team with another.

One wondered if the writing was on the wall for Thomas - even if the team time trial indicated that Team Ineos (Sky) were riding strongly.

Today we had our answer. On the first mountainous stage, Ineos did not ride tempo like Sky until the very end - but staying in touch with the GC contenders. They elected to ride steadily, but powerfully - allowing a couple of acknowledged climbers to accelerate away.

Then on the brutal final slope to the summit finish, Thomas accelerated and left all his rivals (including his team mate) literally in his dust.

We now have to see if there will be a reaction in his body to this prodigious effort - but all the signs are that Thomas is back! Chapeau (see - I can spell it correctly!)

We must just hope he stays upright for the next two weeks or so.

:thumbup: