Mark Cavendish: The Unstoppable Sprint King
Mark Cavendish, at 39 years old, has once again proven his mettle by clinching his 35th victory in the Tour de France, surpassing the legendary Eddy Merckx. This monumental achievement was met with jubilation within the peloton. Belgian Lotto sprinter Arnaud De Lie, who finished fourth, was among the first to congratulate him. De Lie praised Cavendish's enduring passion and dedication, noting, 'To keep such a passion like that, at his age, it's truly incredible.'
Tadej Pogacar, the Yellow Jersey holder, also expressed his admiration, calling Cavendish a hero and reminiscing about watching him on TV as a child. The sentiment was echoed by other riders, including Arnaud Démare and Biniam Girmay, who praised Cavendish's perseverance and skill.
A Journey of Perseverance and Triumph
Cavendish's journey to this victory was not without its challenges. Deep in the rankings and facing difficulties since the start in Florence, the Astana sprinter meticulously prepared for this moment. Despite a near-miss when his chain came off close to the finish line, Cavendish managed to secure his win in front of Jasper Philispen and Alexander Kristoff.
The victory was even more special as Cavendish's family was present to witness his triumph. This emotional win showcased not just his physical prowess but also his mental resilience. 'I’m lucky to share a lot of things with today’s runners,' Cavendish said, reflecting on the support and camaraderie within the peloton.
The day also saw notable performances from other riders. Clément Russo and Mattéo Vercher led a spirited escape but were eventually caught. Tim Declercq, known as the 'Tractor,' played a crucial role in catching up with the breakaways, though the stage ended sadly for Mads Pedersen, who crashed into the barriers.
- Knighted in mid-June by Charles III, Mark Cavendish added another feather to his cap by becoming the king of the Tour de France with his 35th stage win. This victory came at the end of a 177.4-kilometer stage in Saint-Vulbas. Cavendish's meticulous preparation and strategic riding paid off, allowing him to raise his arms in triumph.
- The day's events were not without drama. Tadej Pogacar narrowly avoided a collision with a directional island, causing a ripple effect that destabilized other riders. Meanwhile, Sam Bennett, returning to the Tour after three years, struggled to make an impact, finishing last among the sprinters.
- Despite the challenges, the camaraderie and respect within the peloton were evident. Riders and sports directors alike honored Cavendish's achievement, highlighting the spirit of the Tour de France.
