2008 Tour of Missouri, Stage 2

September 9, I had the privilege of being at the finish line of stage 2 of the 2008 Tour of Missouri. Stage 2 was a 126 mile ride (longest of this year's event). They began the race in Clinton and finished in Springfield. Average speed was 27.5mph! Note from Larry: I do good to average 12 mph when I ride!
The race featured some of the top cyclist in the world, including many who participated in this year's Tour de France.
Winner was Mark Cavendish from Great Britian. Cavendish has made a big name for himself this year, having won 4 stages of the Tour de France.
Currently, Cavendish has been called the fastest bike sprinter in the world.

Once in Springfield, riders made two "circuit" loops, riding past us 3 times. So I had two chances for practice shots, before the big winning moment.
Race leader, and day's winner Mark Cavendish (in yellow jersey) is right on the rear wheel of George Hincapie. Hincapie was last years Tour of Missouri winner, and rode for many years with Lance Armstrong on Team Discovery and US Postal. They rode one more loop after this photo.
Charge to the line, Cavendish leads out.
Cavendish with his trademark victory salute as he crossed the line. This is the shot I'd hoped to get, as I've watched lots of bike racing on tv and seen Mark do this many times!

About 10 minutes or less after the race was over. Yeah, really looks like he just rode 126 miles in about 5 hours, doesn't he? If that were me, I'd be laying on the ground, gasping for air! But those guys hardly seem to have worked up a sweat! How do they do it!
On stage, waiting for awards.
Stage 2 winners, left to right: Second place, Eric Baumann, Team Sparkasse, Winner, Cavendish, Team Columbia, and Third place, Francesco Chicchi, Liquigas
Cavendish receives leaders yellow jersey from Missouri Leut. Governor, Peter Kinder.