|
 |
| Armstrong proved a big draw on his return to the Tour de France [AFP] |
Lance Armstrong returned to his favourite stage four years after winning a record seventh consecutive Tour de France and set a respectable time in the opening time trial.
The 18th rider to set off in Monaco, Armstrong clocked 20 minutes 12 seconds for the 15.5km course to briefly top the standings.
However Switzerland's Fabian Cancellara won the stage to take the leader's yellow jersey.
Spain's Alberto Contador, the 2007 Tour champion, was second and Bradley Wiggins of Britain was third.
The American hinted afterwards that he had not expected a winning start to the race.
Illusions
"I did not have big illusions", the 37-year-old said on Saturday.
"I was a bit nervous but it is logical. I'm just happy to be here even if we don't win today because there are a lot of other things I could be doing right now.
"It is a difficult course for sure but I think it is difficult for everybody. It is very technical, it is hard to find a rhythm but that's logical after years away."
After a 20-minute session on a roller with a Livestrong jersey on his shoulders came the moment the cycling media and fans had been waiting for and Armstrong went to the start, where he received a warm welcome from the crowd.
Armstrong, who returned to racing in January after three and a half years in retirement, made a cautious start but progressively found his rhythm.
He struggled a bit in the descent of the Cote de Beausoleil at some 90kph, crossing the finish line in muggy weather.
"What a beautiful race. It was fun. I felt pretty good, overall, I feel good. I was a little bit all over the place," Armstrong said.
|