Key moments

In using an already proven strategy in 2007, Jens Voigt took his fourth victory, becoming the most successful rider on the event since it became International in 1978. Winner in 1999, 2004 and 2007 and now in 2008, the German now joins Jacques Anquetil, who won the “Critérium national de la route” on four occasions. Riding cautiously on the slick streets of the time trial, Voigt finished a distant 43rd to the stage winner and Norwegian national time trial champion Edvald Boasson Hagen who claimed his first victory of 2008.

Team High Road takes control
After the 22 riders, who retired on the morning stage, the remaining 118 ran in the individual time trial. 118th in the overall standings, Steven Kleynen (BEL- LAN) was the first to set off with prudence. His pace wasn’t enough to allow him the honour of posting a best time as he was overtaken on the road by Dimitri Champion (FRA-BTL). The Frenchman was then demoted by Adam Hansen (AUS-THR), who in turn was bested by Tony Martin (GER-THR), then it was Edvald Boasson Hagen (NOR – THR) moving to the top of the order.

Boasson Hagen hangs on
The time of the reigning Norwegian time trial champion stood up against several specialist in the discipline, such as Bobby Julich (USA – CSC), David Zabriskie (USA – TSL) and David Millar (GBR – TSL)

Sanchez retains white jersey
While Jens Voigt was under no threat to lose his yellow jersey as overall leader, the last riders to set off played a role in who would win the stage, as well as deciding the winner of the white jersey. Heading into the time trial two riders were separated by less than a second, Luis-Leon Sanchez (SPA-GCE) and Maxime Monfort (BEL-COF). Sanchez’s time solidified is slight advantage and was strong enough for the Spaniard to finish on the podium, joining Swedish national champion, Gustav Larsson, who finished runner-up to Voigt. Boasson Hagen marched on to the top step of the time trial podium with a 7” margin of victory from team mate Tony Martin.

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This afternoon my goal, more than anything else, was not to fall. I knew I had a large enough lead not to be worried. I thus rode very relaxed. I nearly stopped at some of the corners so as to not take any undo risks. It is important to win for a fourth time, but I don’t ride to establish records. In fact, it was more emotional last year after equalling the total of Sean Kelly, who was a childhood hero of mine.
This race was made for me. Over the years I have learned that I am a lot better on the shorter distance events. If it is too long or too hard, I lack a few things to make the difference. But, here, I can defend my chances over three stages. It is a format that suits me well. In any case, I will be back again next year!”

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