Thor Hushovd Paris Nice stage 2
(Image credit: LUC CLAESSEN)

Thor Hushovd has collected a full set of podium places in the first three days of the race. He followed his win in the Prologue with third place a day later, and second place in yesterday?s stage to Belleville.

But while the Norwegian race leader was disappointed with being beaten by Gert Steegmans for the second day in a row, it was his attack on the descent of the mist-enshrouded Col du Fût d?Avenas which lit up the race. Sprinters usually ride conservatively, in order to save themselves for the end of the race, but Hushovd?s panache lit up the race, a day after the spectacular crosswind-hit stage to Nevers. It?s early to say, but in spite of the atrocious weather, it?s looking like one of the best stage races for many years.

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Edward Pickering is a writer and journalist, editor of Pro Cycling and previous deputy editor of Cycle Sport. As well as contributing to Cycling Weekly, he has also written for the likes of the New York Times. His book, The Race Against Time, saw him shortlisted for Best New Writer at the British Sports Book Awards. A self-confessed 'fair weather cyclist', Pickering also enjoys running.