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Stage start or finish: which is best?

Posted: 25 Mar 2014, 12:03pm
by Garry Booth
I'm looking at being in the Pau region for the tour stage there. Is it better to be in Pau at the start for the razzamatazz and caravan? Or is the finish best for drama? Also, how easy will it be to get to the Hautacam for the finish, realistically? Any thoughts from people who've been there, done that, most welcome. G

Re: Stage start or finish: which is best?

Posted: 25 Mar 2014, 6:44pm
by cycleruk
The start will give you the best chance of seeing the riders. Signing on takes place at the start so all the remaining riders will be there. More chance of getting closer to your favourite.
The finish will be hectic with the riders wanting to get away for their warm down etc.

Re: Stage start or finish: which is best?

Posted: 27 Mar 2014, 4:58pm
by hamster
Typically the last 400m of finish is closed off and ticketed. Likewise there is a big secure area just behind the finish with the TV trucks etc. This of course depends on the exact location each day.

I have in the past positioned myself by the 1km flamme rouge and got a roadside seat about an hour before the finish for free.

If you want to see individuals, go to the start. If you hope to catch a tiny snatch of racing, be at the finish. If you want to understand, watch it on TV!

Re: Stage start or finish: which is best?

Posted: 28 Mar 2014, 3:39pm
by Garry Booth
Thanks Hamster and Cycleruk! That's helpful. G

Re: Stage start or finish: which is best?

Posted: 28 Mar 2014, 8:37pm
by Cunobelin
Problem is the popularity of these tow points.

I have found that finding a corner in a less busy area gives better photo opportunities, the riders have to slow down allowing some good opportunities if you have a camera with multiple fast image option

Re: Stage start or finish: which is best?

Posted: 18 Apr 2014, 7:27pm
by mjr
Cunobelin wrote:I have found that finding a corner in a less busy area gives better photo opportunities, the riders have to slow down allowing some good opportunities if you have a camera with multiple fast image option

Set your camera's rapid fire going, then look up. I had a near miss at a pro race a few years ago when I underestimated how far over they'd lean around the corner. Makes even aggressive amateur racers look chicken!

Anyone know if the stadium finish in Sheffield will be ticketed?