Stage 3 Preview

Stage 3
Start: Wanze
End: Arenburg
Length: 213 km
Difficulty Profile(1-10): 7.5

THEY'RE BAAAACK! As if the riders weren't already having enough problems navigating the course, the cobblestones will be making an appearance tomorrow after a 5 year absence. They will be presented to the field in 7 different smaller stretches that cover a total of about 13 km, and come right near the end of the race. This stage will likely won by a good classics rider, as a good ride through the cobbles may mean enough of an advantage to continue on and win the stage. It may be a good time for Cadel Evans to try to get an advantage over riders like Contador and Schleck, who are not known for good cobblestone riding. Beyond the late cobbles, the rest of the stage is a piece of cake, so they will be the decider of the race. My prediction is that Chavenel does not keep yellow, although he does have enough of a lead to pull it off. This is probably the third most anticipated stage of the Tour (behind the ITT and climbing), so I certainly would not plan to miss it.