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STAGE 18 July 23 Annemasse - Lons-le-Saunier (103.152mi/166km)

Published: Jul. 23, 2004
STAGE 18 July 23 Annemasse - Lons-le-Saunier (103.152mi/166km)
STAGE 18 July 23 Annemasse - Lons-le-Saunier (103.152mi/166km)

COURSE: This stage has five climbs but none are particularly steep;the Col de la Faucille, which overlooks Lake Geneva, is the longest, butcomes before halfway.

The small Nogna hill and fast descent to the finish offer some chances for a late break.

FAVORITES: The sprinters that have survived three difficult daysin the Alps will covet this stage.

STAGE 18 July 23 Annemasse - Lons-le-Saunier (103.152mi/166km)
STAGE 18 July 23 Annemasse - Lons-le-Saunier (103.152mi/166km)

If someone like Bettini fails in a latemove, the field sprint will favor the talents of a Cooke or Zabel.

HISTORY: Two stages have finished at Lons-le-Saunier.

In 1937, the fifth stage was held in three parts: a 175km road race from Belfort to Lons-le-Saunier - won by Frenchman Henri Puppo (right) in a two-manbreak - followed by a 34km team time trial and a 93km road race. In 1963,Belgian Frans Brands won in a solo break, three minutes ahead of the pack.

ANNEMASSE:
Starts: 0
Finishes: 0

LONS-LE-SAUNIER:
Starts: 0
Finishes: 2 (1937-63)

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