Stage 2 York-Sheffield 201km
The second stage of the Tour de France will start today from the city of York. Long before inspiring the definitive name of the most populous city in the United States, York expanded from a Roman city. York developed the UK's first Park and Pedal program. 190 kilometers of cycle paths, a specially designed one-kilometer circuit for racing, 2,000 bicycle parking spaces in the city center. It now bears the "label" of the UK's bike-friendly city. York welcomes more than 7 million visitors every year and presents the "Jorvik Viking Festival" during which participants relive the Viking era. It would not be surprising to see some on the roadside...
The city of York was founded in 71 AD, and has a rich Roman and Viking history. It remained one of England's most important cities throughout the Middle Ages, prospering from the wool trade. Its decline began with the industrial revolution: as a result, many medieval buildings, elsewhere destroyed to make way for factories, have largely remained intact.
Another relic of this medieval era is a law still in force (because it has never been repealed) that allows the murder of a Scot within the city walls if he carries a bow and arrows. Archers of modern times, beware!
On a man-made hill, York Castle was built, of which only the tower remains today. Following a large explosion in 1684 which rendered the remaining defensive works unusable, York Castle continued to serve as a prison until 1929!
Beware of Holme Moss
If local experts are to be believed, this second stage in Yorkshire is a mini Liège-Bastogne-Liège. So, while the peloton is familiar with the hills of the Ardennes, they will now have to get used to the Yorkshire Moors, the bumps that make the county a hilly region. For British pros and amateurs alike, the most famous and popular of these Moors is Holme Moss (km 143.5), which is to English cycling what the Redoute climb is to the Ardennes. This 3rd category climb culminates at 524 meters and is the scene of a foot race every year. It is also a classic of the Tour of Great Britain and was on the program of the defunct Leeds Classic. "When we talk about Liège-Bastogne-Liège, it's not lightly. It's really tough," assures Christian Guiberteau. And if the crowds turn out in force, Holme Moss could well resemble the Alpe d'Huez…
A stage full of hills that should keep the yellow jersey contenders on their toes!
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