Greig Leach

The length (258 kilometers) and the weather conditions did not make for many happy riders. Once someone cracked on the steepest of climbs on the Harrogate circle, it wasn't far to the team support area. It had to be way too tempting to just pull off the road and leave the race. For Jonathan Castroviego (Spain) he had the added dis-incentive that his team leader (and defending World Champion) Alejandro Valverde, had all ready abandon the defense of his jersey. I would say it wasn't a day for those of sunny climes, but many nordic riders had already abandoned the race as well.