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Back on track: The Marion Clignet Journal 2004
French track legend Marion Clignet retired from racing in 2000, intending to become active as an advocate for women's sport. But after two years off the bike, and perhaps inspired by the other female champions she's encountered while working as a presenter for French TV, Clignet returned to the velodrome in 2003 to the velodrome in a determined comeback. After a solid year building a foundation, Marion's back competing at thehighest level in 2004.
Giro d'Italia Femminile - 2.9.1, Italy, July 2-11, 2004
The political circuit
Stage 3 - July 5: Cornuda - Crocetta del Montello, 133km
Stage three had 40km of what I call the political circuit through town to say hello to all the sponsors. A few attacks here and there but Pasta Zara was determined not to let anything get away. The climbs were fairly uneventful though a bit rapid for some, as over half the peloton got shelled. I got to play 'on bike mechanic' four or five times because I like using a 38 front chainring in these races and it doesnt seem to get along with my bike. What surprised me was that I stayed relatively calm and each time was able to pick up the chain while riding and put it back on without of course leaving out a few commentaires such as "f**king chain arghghghgs!"
The new experience was having to hold my front lever to keep the front derailleur in place though. Quite a challenge if you're out of the saddle and trying not to accidentally hit your brakes at the same time and send yourself off the front of your bike... I would be capable of doing that as well. The field sprint almost came down to a small gap between two riders (myself and Olivia Gollan); that would have been nice but having to hold my derailleur proved to be too challenging so I searched for a team mate to lead out. A hip thrust from the side by a bigger rider than myself nearly sent me into the road side bushes but after a few 'va foncullos' I managed to stay up and give a so-so lead out bringing Anette home to 8th and me to 22nd. Moved up another 4 places in GC!
Wahoooooo!
