It's sprinters vs. punchers for Tour de France second stage

0 Comments | AFP, July, 2008

BREST, France (AFP) — The Tour de France sprinters are hoping to officially announce their race entry with a bunch finish on Sunday, but there are plenty of 'punchers' who will look to kick that plan into touch.

At just 164.5km long, the second stage takes the peloton north from Auray to Saint-Brieuc over undulating terrain, paying tribute to Tour legend Bernard Hinault on the way by passing through his hometown of Yffiniac.

Breakaways are a near certainty, and with five-time winner Hinault's name on everyone's lips a few Frenchman are likely to be among them.

The only problem for any breakaway group is the location of the last of the day's four climbs - and the slightly uphill finish in the coastal city known most for its superb sailing and scallops...