Bet on cycling

The Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré is traditionally one of the best organised races in the UCI ProTour and looks set to stay that way.

The eight-day race has kept its distinct French feel but is also a major international race that attracts some of the best stage race riders in the peloton. It forms an important part of the riders’ build-up for the Tour de France but every one wants to win overall because it makes them automatic favourite for July.

Last year Spain’s Alejandro Valverde of the Caisse d’Epargne team took the yellow jersey but only after a tussle with Australia’s Cadel Evans and compatriot Alberto Contador.

The inclusion of the Mont Ventoux climb during the race was decisive. Valverde finished second to Poland’s Sylvester Szmyd (Liquigas) but gained precious seconds on Evans to set up an 18-second victory.

This year’s race will be the 62nd edition and promises to be one of the best ever. The race will finish in Sallanches, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of French hero Bernard Hinault winning the world road race title in 1980. A mountain top finish at the ski resort of l’Alpe d’Huez is also planned for the penultimate stage on June 12. The 13km climb snakes up the side of the mountain in the Alps and is one of the legendary climbs made famous by cycling.

Evans will surely be out for revenge in 2010 and the World Champion’s rainbow jersey will boost his chances. Lance Armstrong is also expected to ride as the Critérium du Dauphiné Libéré begins a new chapter in its successful life.