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Additional Information for Malaysia Airlines Herald Sun Tour

Seventeen teams of five - another brimming field of 85 are taking part in this year's race over 11 days.

By Latrobe Shire Council - 20th October 2004 - Back to News

They face 37 hill climbs and 119 sprints in some tough stages.

The captain of each of the 17 teams is usually the best-credentialed rider, with the best chance of winning the tour.

But every member of every team has a role to play. Whether it's a sprint or a gut-busting hill climb, every rider has a responsibility to ensure his captain gets protection and help.

They will often ride at the front of a bunch, controlling the speed, preventing attacks and closing the gaps on breakaway riders.

If a rider manages a break, the rest of his team will try to slow the chasing pack, as well as keeping a watchful eye on rivals.

It's on the hills where strategy is at its most important. As the best climbers dash to the front, team tactics will depend on where the captain is positioned in the field.

Normally, the tour leader’s team-mates will set such a hot pace that it is difficult, or sometimes impossible, for a rival to make a break.

On the other hand, the main challengers will attack the man in the leader's yellow jersey, forcing him and his team-mates to respond.

If successful, this tactic can break up the leader's rhythm and change the face of the race. Other factors are also important, many of them beyond the riders' control.

Weather, headwinds and crosswinds, breakdowns, punctures and injuries can all influence the outcome.

The Herald Sun Tour is a race against the clock. Each rider's time is calculated at the end of each stage and the one with the lowest aggregate time is the race leader and is privileged to wear the famous yellow jersey for the next stage.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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