For the fourth consecutive day, I attended a stage of the Tour of Spain. Today, the tour started in the city of Alcoy – a 30 minute drive from where I am staying. This was the fourth time Alcoy has hosted a stage in the history of the Spanish Tour. The last time Alcoy hosted was in 2004. Even if I had not planned to attend the other stages, I would have definitely attended this one based on Alcoy’s proximity to Benimassot, Spain.

According to lavuelta.com the stage was to begin at 12:10 pm. Thus, I arrived in Alcoy and was parked around 11:15 am.

The Race
One of the benefits of attending the start of a stage is that you can “mingle” with the riders before the event begins. Of course, I define “mingle” as you can take pictures with them as they get their bike and gear ready for the day ahead.

The event started with the honorary cutting of the ribbon. The race appeared to begin about five minutes early when the bikes started riding and the caravan ensued. Since I was not with the Ultimate Sports Wife I did not take in any of the sites in Alcoy but headed back to the house.

Gustavo Cesar Veloso won the stage, while Alejandro Valverde took the overall tour lead and will wear the gold jersey.