Tour of California - 2.1

USA, February 19-26, 2006

Photography

Stage 7 - February 26: Redondo Beach Circuit Race, 123.1km

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) wins the final stage of the Tour of California, beating Juan Jose Haedo (Toyota United Pro) and Andre Greipel (T-Mobile) to capture his second victory in as many days.
• Jens Voigt (CSC) had a new bike for the race today but it wasn't team issue.
• The early break gets up the road.
• After a big crash the field spent a lap just cruising.
• Fans were out along the roadway heading up along the coast.
• A Wyland painting along the course today.
• Bernard Kohl (T-Mobile) lays into a turn.
• Jackson Stewart (Kodak-Sierra Nevada) one of this tour's most aggressive riders.
• Glen Chadwick (Navigators) powers the break.
• Chris Horner (Davitamon-Lotto) was active late in the race.
• The bunch makes its way down tree covered streets.
• Back along the coastline for the last stage today.
• Janez Brajkovic (Discovery) rides mid-pack.
• A beautiful day for a bike race.
• Irishman David O'Loughlin (Navigators).
• Chris Horner (Davitamon-Lotto) strings out the field.
• Greg Henderson (Health Net/Maxxis) gets a bottle from the team car.
• Saunier Duval-Prodir lead the way.
• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) takes home another stage win.
• Tom Peterson (TIAA-CREF) a little worse for the wear after his first lap fall.
• Horsepower.
• Hmm, not much surfing in Germany but could be fun.
• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) celebrates with the TV cameraman.
• Floys Landis (Phonak), winner of the first Amgen Tour of California.
• The final podium - (L to R) Glen Chadwick (Navigators, most aggressive), Floyd Landis (Phonak, overall winner), Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner, mountains), Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile, sprints), and Tom Peterson (TIAA-CREF, best young rider).

Images by Mitch Friedman/www.mitchophoto.com

• Overall winner Floyd Landis (Phonak) gets the bubbly going.
• Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) and team-mate Chris Horner have chat in the pack on lap 1.
• The four-man breakaway, containing Glen Chadwick (Navigators), Davide Frattini (Colavita-Sutter Home), Aaron Olsen (Saunier Duval-Prodir) and Scott Zwizanki (Kodak-Sierra Nevada).
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) and Floyd Landis (Phonak) riding safely in the pack.
• Michael Sayers (Health Net/Maxxis) talks to his director.
• Tom Peterson (TIAA-CREF) a little bruised and battered after an earlier crash.
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel), Torsten Hiekmann (Gerolsteiner) and Martin Elmiger (Phonak) ride in the pack.
• Davide Frattini (Colavita-Sutter Home) passes by a local landmark, the "Whaling Wall".
• Scott Zwizanki (Kodak-Sierra Nevada) working hard in the break.
• The pack climbs with scenic Redondo Beach in the background.
• Greg Henderson (Health Net/Maxxis) gets his right shoe worked on.
• The start from up high.

Images by Mitch Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

• A break goes the first time up the hill; Glen Chadwick (Navigators) leads Aaron Olson (Saunier Duval-Prodir) and Scott Zwizanski (Kodak Sierra Nevada), with Davide Frattini (Colavita) joining them shortly after.
• First time up the climb the pack was a bit strung out...
• ... but the second time up they were very happy to let the break away for the meantime.
• Chris Horner leads his Davitamon-Lotto team and the pack in the chase.
• GC leader Floyd Landis (Phonak) was happy to spend the day tucked away in the pack.
• Navigators team director Ed Beamon talks to his rider Glen Chadwick in the break. What could he be saying? Smile for the cameras?

Images by Mark Zalewski/Cyclingnews.com

• Navigators rider Phil Zajicek looking a little worse for wear after a crash put a number of riders out of the race.
• Davitamon-Lotto lead the charge.
• CSC DS Scott Sunderland behind the wheel.
• Ooh la la! the CSC cheer squad!
• Actually, make that the Dave Z cheer squad!

Images by Seng Chen/www.iheartbrains.com

• Glen Chadwick (Navigators) takes a turn at the front of the breakaway group.
• Davitamon-Lotto strings out the pack.
• Stage 7 rolls through the palm tree lined streets of Redondo Beach.
• Davitamon-Lotto controls the peloton with Floyd Landis' Phonak squad keeping close tabs.
• The breakaway group of Aaron Olson (Saunier Duval-Prodir), Davide Frattini (Colavita), Scott Zwizanski (Kodakgallery.com-Sierra Nevada) and Glen Chadwick (Navigators) coast down the back straightaway.
• Bobby Julich (CSC) eases around a hairpin as the peloton bides it's time in Stage 7.
• Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery) gets out of the saddle.
• Aaron Olson (Saunier Duval-Prodir) leads the break into the final laps around Redondo Beach.
• The breakaway group keeps on suffering into the final lap.
• Phonak leads the inevitable charge to reassimilate the break.
• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) takes another stage victory and enough points to reclaim the final points jersey.
• Stage winner Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) salutes the crowd at Redondo Beach. Juan Jose Haedo (Toyota-United Pro) and André Greipel (T-Mobile) finished second and third on the day.
• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) sees a new future as a surfer dude in California. Peace out!
• Stuart O'Grady wets down the crowd as Team CSC finishes first in the team classification.
• Olaf Pollack celebrates the final points jersey.
• ID, please? A bruised and battered Tom Peterson toils at opening his champange.
• Low key as usual, Bobby Julich (CSC) stands satisfied with a third place GC finish.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) delivers the bubbly.
• I love Dad. Papa Floyd gives his last bouquet to daughter Ryan.

Images by Mark Johnson/www.ironstring.com

• Danish national champ Lars Bak (CSC).
• A Gerolsteiner rider enjoys the Californian sun.
• Glen Chadwick (Navigators), Davide Frattini (Colavita) and Aaron Olsen (Prodir-Saunier Duval) drive the break.
• A sea of color washes over Redondo Beach on the final day of the Tour of California.
• The final stage in Redondo Beach attracted huge numbers of fans from all over Southern California.
• Thomas Peterson (TIAA-CREF) went down in an early crash, but resolutely made his way back up through the caravan to join the field and keep his $5000 best young rider's prize.
• With two stage wins and a second in the Tour of California, Toyota-United Pro made quite a splash for a first year team.
• Jens Voigt (CSC) was a crowd favorite.
• Chris Horner (Davitamon-Lotto) with race winner Floyd Landis (Phonak) three men back.
• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) nails his second win of the Tour of California.
• The CSC boys rejoice at winning the team prize.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) pops the bubbly and looks forward to a well-deserved In-N-Out burger on his way home.

Images by Steve Cohen/www.sportsshooter.com/STEVEC

• Health Net's RV.
• The Weapons of choice.
• Greg Henderson (Health Net/Maxxis).
• The forgotten - the moto drivers.
• Colavita has a secret meeting in the van.
• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) goes surfin'.
• Signing an autograph for a young fan.
• Colavita signs in.
• George Hincapie (Discovery) ready to go.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) relaxes before the start.
• George Hincapie (Discovery) and Floyd Landis (Phonak) have a laugh before the start.
• Davide Frattini (Colavita) on the only break of the circuit.
• Phonak leads out the peloton.
• Health Net stays in the thick of things.
• Scott Moninger (Health Net/Maxxis).
• The lead group.
• Health Net leads out.
• The Davitamon-Lotto train.
• Toyota-United Pro still strong.

Stage 6 - February 25: Santa Barbara to Thousand Oaks, 144km

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Seng Chen/www.iheartbrains.com

• Phonak takes to the front of the peloton shortly after racing begins.
• The peloton leave Santa Barbara and head inland on its way to Amgen headquarters in Thousand Oaks.
• Sven Krauss (Gerosteiner) makes a solo break as the race enters the finishing laps around Amgen headquarters.
• Toyota-United Pro takes the front as the race starts its finishing laps, perhaps hoping to bring Juan Jose Haedo another stage victory.
• A packed crowd cheers on Floyd Landis and the rest of the peloton.
• Team CSC takes to the front with two laps to go.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) keeps his troops close beside him on the finishing circuit.
• René Haselbacher (Gerolsteiner) leads out from about 500m but Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto), Gord Fraser (Health Net-Maxxis) Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) and Riccardo Ricco (Saunier Duval-Prodir) block out Haselbacher's team-mates Fabian Wegmann and David Kopp.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) completes another hard day in the leader's jersey.
• Fred Rodriguez and son Adian receive a bouquet from Thousand Oaks mayor Dennis Gillette.
• Stage winner Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) takes to the podium with Riccardo Ricco (Saunier Duval-Prodir) and Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto).
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) secures another leader's jersey going into the final stage.
• The jerseys remain largely unchanged - (L to R) Sebastian Lang (most aggressive), Thomas Peterson (best young rider), George Hincapie (points), Floyd Landis (GC) and Levi Leipheimer (KOM).

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• The first break of the day gets up the road.
• Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery Channel) leads the chase.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) sitting comfortably in the leader's jersey.
• Jens Voigt (CSC) leads the charge with one lap to go.
• Sven Krauss (Gerolsteiner) tries to stay away coming into the final circuits.
• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) beats Riccardo Ricco (Saunier Duval-Prodir) and Freddie Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) to earn T-Mobile's first victory of the season.
• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) rejoices at his and the team's first win for the season.
• Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) with his son Adian on the podium.
• Big, big crowds at the finish in Thousand Oaks.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) poses for the press after donning another leader's jersey.

Images by Mitch Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

• Floyd Landis (Phonak) stays near the front of the pack one kilometre before the third KOM sprint.
• Mads Kaggestad (Credit Agricole) hurting a little.
• Jonathan Patrick McCarty (Phonak) uses his lanky frame to dance on the pedals.
• Sven Krauss (Gerolsteiner) comes onto the finishing circuit less than 15 seconds ahead of the pack.
• The pack closes in on Sven Krauss (Gerolsteiner).
• Michael Barry (Discovery) and Alexandre Moos (Phonak) on the finishing circuit.
• Bobby Julich (CSC) leads the pack on the last lap of the finishing circuit.
• Seasoned pro Scott Moninger (Health Net/Maxxis) looking at ease.
• Robert Hunter (Phonak) eyeing the finish line.

Images by Mark Zalewski/Cyclingnews.com

• Sebastian Lang (Gerolsteiner) on the climb.
• A puncture sees Sebastian Lang (Gerolsteiner) receive an unsually long wheel change.

Images by Mitch Friedman/www.mitchophoto.com

• Sebastian Lang (Gerolsteiner) goes for broke in a brave solo move.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) chats with Juan José Haedo (Toyota-United Pro).
• Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) shows off his cute little baby.
• Tony Cruz (Toyota-United Pro) signs autographs.
• Dave Z (CSC) tries to calm the enthusiastic Santa Barbara crowd.
• Michael Creed (TIAA-CREF) gets his radio fixed.
• Jelly Belly DS Danny Van Haute driving the team car.
• The riders push the photo-moto off the road as David Zabriskie catches the moto's front wheel just prior to going down.
• Janez Brajkovic and Vladimir Gusev play water boys for Discovery Channel.
• Mike Friedman (TIAA-CREF) mixes it up with Jean Marc Marino, Charles Dionne and Jackson Stewart.
• Toyota-United Pro riders Justin England, Juan Manuel Garcia and Heath Blackgrove pull hard in front Bernard Kohl (T-Mobile) and the peloton behind them.
• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) takes the win.

Images by Steve Cohen/www.sportsshooter.com/STEVEC

• Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) on the podium with his baby.
• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) on the podium.
• The stage 6 podium.
• Sprints leader George Hincapie (Discovery Channel).
• The various jersey wearers on the podium.
• Saunier Duval-Prodir hold a conference.
• Gerolsteiner's Sven Krauss tries his luck.
• Toyota-United Pro hit the front.
• Health Net/Maxxis take their turn at the head of affairs.
• Peek-a-boo!
• Phonak and Discovery go head-to-head.
• CSC taking control.
• Jelly Belly still riding.
• Looks like a horse race is going on.
• Big Jens Voigt powering the peloton.
• Health Net/Maxxis haven't given up.
• Everyone needs a media pass - even Freddy's bub!

Images by Mark Johnson/www.ironstring.com

• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) recounts the previous day's attack on the San Marcos climb to Thomas Peterson (TIAA CREF) and Nick Reistad (Jelly Belly).
• This officer lets Floyd Landis (Phonak) off with an autograph.
• Sven Krauss (Gerolsteiner) attacks in Thousand Oaks.
• Health Net was a presence in the finale, their sprinter Gord Fraser taking fourth.
• Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) puts another victory in the can for the boys in pink.
• CSC put the hammer down on the final three laps of a 3.3 mile circuit in Thousand Oaks.
• The Clif Bar girls were a hit with fans in Thousand Oaks.
• Showing the marks of a hard day in the saddle.
• Cyclingnews' Mark Zalewski gets the live race report out to the world.
• The jersey wearers - (L to R) Sebastian Lang (Gerolsteiner), most aggresive; Levi Leiphiemer (Gerolsteiner), KOM leader; George Hincapie (Discovery), points leader; Floyd Landis (Phonak), general classification leader; and Thomas Peterson (TIAA CREF), best young rider, on the Thousand Oaks podium.
• Marco Pinotti (Prodir-Saunier Duval), Andre Korff (T-Mobile) and Freddy Rodriguez (with year 2028 contender) on the podium at Amgen's Thousand Oaks headquarters.
• Sebastian Lang's (Gerolsteiner) day out in front earned him the most aggresive rider's jersey.
• George Hincapie (Discovery) dons the points leader jersey.
• Floyd's pins - these legs are made for riding.

Stage 5 - February 24: San Luis Obispo to Santa Barbara, 169.5km

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) takes his second win at the Tour of California, this time beating Fabian Wegmann (Gerolsteiner) and Chris Horner (Davitamon-Lotto) to triumph in Santa Barbara.
• Gilberto Simoni (Saunier Duval-Prodir) and Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) ham it up at today's start.
• Jaun Jose Haedo (Toyota-United Pro) and Bobby Julich (CSC) have a chat on the line.
• And they're off!
• The first break of the day works together through the sprint on the road.
• The bunch rolls through the sprint.
• The second break of the day with Fabian Wegmann (Gerolsteiner), Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery Channel) and Jens Voigt (CSC).
• The break of Fabian Wegmann (Gerolsteiner), Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery Channel) and Jens Voigt (CSC) also contains Jelly Belly's Nick Reistad.
• Lunch time.
• Phonak controls the front.
• Eventual stage winner George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) rides comfortably in the bunch.
• Jens Voigt (CSC) rides hard off the front.
• Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery Channel) works to power the break.
• Nick Reistad (Jelly Belly) checks to see what's ahead along the route.
• The bunch keeps together through the rolling hills.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) cruising in the bunch.
• The bunch early on.
• The bunch passes some old farm equipment along the route.
• A windmill at one of the many vineyards along the route stands tall next to the group.
• Lake Cachuma provides a picturesque backdrop for the peloton zipping pass.
• Phonak sets the tempo at the front for team leader Floyd Landis.

Images by Seng Chen/www.iheartbrains.com

• Where'd everybody go? With 50 meters to go, Olaf Pollack (T-Mobile) dusts the field at the first Clif Bar sprint in Arroyo Grande.
• Mark McCormack (Colavita) takes to the front of a short lived break with Lars Bak (CSC) and René Haselbacher (Gerolsteiner).
• Discovery takes to the front with Phonak keeping close tabs as the peloton passes through Santa Maria.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) takes the front with Riccardo Ricco (Prodir Saunier Duval) in tow.
• Leipheimer keeps the pressure on to take the category one climb and the King of the Mountains jersey.
• Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery) powers up San Marcos Pass with Sebastian Lang (Gerolsteiner) and Jens Voigt (CSC) in tow.
• Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) looks strong near the end of the final climb.
• Tim Johnson (Health Net- Maxxis) and Mike Creed (TIAA-CREF) string their group over the top.
• Is that George? A fan sneaks in between groups.
• Fabian Cancellara (CSC) leads a group over San Marcos Pass.

Images by Mitch Friedman/www.mitchophoto.com

• Tom Danielson has a new buddy - a Chihuahua with a LiveStrong collar.
• Colavita riders sign on in San Luis Obispo.
• Gilberto Simoni (Saunier Duval-Prodir) and Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) wait at the start line.
• They're off!
• Gerolsteiner's Rene Haselbacher rolls out at the start.
• Oh, fudge! What kind of fans do we have at the Clif Bar sprint #1?
• Tim Johnson (Health Net/Maxxis), Jackson Stewart, and Tony Cruz chasing the sprint.
• Gilberto Simoni (Saunier Duval-Prodir), Christian Vande Velde (CSC), and others.
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) with Mayor Marty Blum of Santa Barbara.

Images by Doug Herrick/www.mitchophoto.com

• The pack comes through with Andy Bajadali leading Ricardo Rico.
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) on the line for the stage win.

Images by Mitch Clinton/www.clintonphoto.com

• Riccardo Ricco (Saunier Duval Prodir) and Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) lead with 300 metres to the summit of the last climb of the day up San Marcos Pass.
• Jens Voigt (CSC) and Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery Channel) near the crest of the climb.
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) sizes up the field near the summit of the final climb.
• A Phonak rider in the hurt bag.
• A Toyota-United Pro rider suffers on the last climb.
• Marco Pinotti (Saunier Duval-Prodir) enjoying himself. Not.
• Tim Johnson (Health Net/Maxxis) does his best to stay focused.
• Michael Friedman (TIAA-CREF) shows you suffer more at the back than you do at the front.

Images by Mark Johnson/www.ironstring.com

• Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery Channel) enjoys another sunny morning in San Luis Obispo.
• Michael Barry (Discovery Channel) enjoying a good laugh.
• Stuart O'Grady (CSC) is ready to rumble in San Luis Obispo.
• Brothers Stephen and Michael Leece scored a serious number of pro autographs in San Luis Obispo.
• This Mavic neutral support man is your best friend when you flat.
• Ken Hanson, 2005 United States Division 1 collegiate criterium champion, didn't have to go far from his home college campus of Cal Poly San Luis Obispo to watch stage 5.
• The peloton passes through Arroyo Grande, a small town south of San Luis Obispo on California's central coast.
• Scores of local riders pre-rode the course north of Santa Barbara.
• Spectators Jamie and Brandon Arsenault brave the harsh California winter weather while waiting for the peloton.
• Jens Voigt (CSC), Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery), Sebastian Lang (Gerolsteiner) and Nick Reistad (Jelly Belly) head through the Santa Ynez Valley on their way to the climb to 2,155 foot San Marcos Pass.
• Phonak lines them out as the field passes through the Santa Ynez Valley.
• The field faced this obstacle on their last 25 miles into Santa Barbara.
• Judging from the big crowds like this in Santa Barbara and the splendid weather that's followed every stage, the inaugural Tour of California has been a success.
• Levi Leiphiemer (Gerolsteiner) and Floyd Landis (Phonak) share a light moment on the Santa Barbara podium with George Hincapie (Discovery), Thomas Peterson (TIAA CREF) and Nick Reistad (Jelly Belly).

Stage 4 - February 23: Monterey to San Luis Obispo, 210.7km

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Seng Chen/www.iheartbrains.com

• Is that Erik Zabel? Young fans get an autograph from a T-Mobile rider
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) gets some early encouragement.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) greets the crowd on Cannery Row.
• The peloton gets to the start line.
• That's not Gerolsteiner or Discovery! The blue and white of TIAA-CREF and Navigators gets to the front of the neutral start.
• Fabian Wegmann (Gerolsteiner) and Michael Rogers (T-Mobile) get ready for a long day.
• JJ Haedo (Toyota-United Pro) nicks Freddy Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) at the line of his second stage win.
• JJ, are you the fastest? "You can call me that, but I won't."
• Rodriguez, Haedo and Korff (T-Mobile) take the podium.
• Haedo to Rodriguez - "I'm going to ask the Specialized angel if she would join me in a bottle of wine." "Yep, you should both fit in that one."
• Tom Peterson cracks a rare smile as he dons the Best Young Rider jersey.
• JJ Haedo secures his sponsor's logo as Marla Streb looks on.
• Floyd Landis takes in the cheers of the San Luis Obispo crowd.
• The jerseys - JJ Haedo (points), Floyd Landis (GC), Bernhard Kohl (KOM),Tom Peterson (young rider) and Lars Bak (most aggressive) with UCI President Pat McQuaid.

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Jaun Jose Haedo (Toyota – United Pro) takes the win over Freddie Rodriguez (Davitamon/Lotto).
• 3 riders try to get off the front.
• Rugged coastline created the dramatic backdrop for todays stage.
• The famous Bixby Bridge along Route 1.
• Loooking down the road at the final sprint.
• J.J. Haedo (Toyota-United Pro) celebrates his win.
• J.J. Haedo (Toyota-United Pro) after another stage win.

Images by Mark Johnson/www.ironstring.com

• It was a bit brisk at the start on the Montery Bay, but things heated up quick.
• The Colavita-Sutter Home boys sign in while Tom Danielson does a pre race interview.
• Monterey color at the sign in.
• Saul Raisin's (Credit Agricole) hip glasses suggest he knows the field is getting closer to Los Angeles.
• Juan Jose Haedo (Toyota United Pro) at the start and feeling at home while being interviewed in his native tongue by Univision, a Spanish-speaking television network.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) at the start .
• UCI head man Pat McQuaid came out to Monterey for the fourth stage of the Tour of California.
• Mike Creed (TIAA CREF) has been aggressive
• The boys line up on Cannery Row.
• San Luis Obispo fans came out in droves.
• The dust was flying for the sprint finish in downtown San Luis Obispo.
• Juan Jose Haedo (Toyota United Pro) locked down his second Tour of California win in a wildly exciting finish in San Luis Obispo.
• Stage 4 winners - Juan Jose Haedo (Toyota United Pro), Freddy Rodriguez (Davitimon Lotto) and Andre Korff (T-Mobile) on the winner's stage in San Luis Obispo.
• Juan Jose Haedo (Toyota United Pro) gets a big bottle of wine for his efforts while Andre Korff (T-Mobile) looks on.

Images by Mark Zalewski/Cyclingnews.com

• The field rolls along through the hills of California.
• There were a few nasty gravel sections due to rock slides.
• The breakaway was rolling well until Chris Horner (Davitamon-Lotto) arrived.
• Phonak sits on the front of the field, monitoring the break.
• The break enjoys a rare flat section of road.
• Each rider took turns driving the break -- unable to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Images by Mitch Friedman/www.mitchophoto.com

• A moment of silence for fallen CHP officer.
• Start of Stage 4 on Cannery Row, Monterey.
• Preben Van Hecke leads Davitamon-Lotto Team off the line.
• The pack does a lap through Cannery Row in Monterey.
• Maxxis freestyle show in downtown San Luis Obispo.
• Maxxis freestyle - totally crossed up.
• World Bicycle Relief, helping the underprivileged throughout the world.

Images by Doug Herrick/www.mitchophoto.com

• The riders leave Monterey.
• The pack from the back.
• Juan Jose Haedo (Toyota-United) takes the stage victory over Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto).
• Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) gives that bottle of Pinot a wishful look - is it the panorama of San Luis Obispo on the label, or what's inside?

Stage 3 - February 22: San José Time Trial, 27.4km

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Floyd Landis (Phonak) on his way to winning the TT and taking the leader's jersey.
• Former U23 world champ Sergey Lagutin (Navigators Insurance) finished in 34th place.
• Fabian Cancellara (Team CSC) en route to a sixth place finish.
• Nicolas Jalabert (Phonak) was some way off the winning mark in 45th place.
• Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery Channel) finished in a very respectable 15th place.
• Chris Horner (Davitamon-Lotto) finished in 22nd position, 2'08 down on Floyd Landis.
• Pre-race favourite Dave Zabriskie (Team CSC) was 26 seconds off the winning mark set by Floyd Landis.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) lost 1'16 to Floyd Landis and is now sixth overall.
• Overnight leader George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) finished fourth in the TT and is also fourth overall.

Images by Seng Chen/www.iheartbrains.com

• Credit Agricole and Divitamon-Lotto warm up on the rolling course.
• Frantisek Rabon takes the first run for the T-Mobile squad.
• Michael Friedman (TIAA-CREF) wishes there was more oxygen on the last hill.
• World TT champ Michael Rogers (T-Mobile) passes Tim Johnson (Health Net-Maxxis) on the last climb.
• Freddy Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) powers into the last kilometre.
• Jens Voigt (Team CSC) shows how it's done on the final climb.
• Frank Hoj (Gerolsteiner) keeps his eyes toward the finish.
• Fabian Cancellara (Team CSC) doing his best Hincapie impression.
• Mike Creed (TIAA-CREF) feels the hurt coming into the last 100 meters.
• Bernhard Kohl (T-Mobile) knows there's pain in the flats, too.
• Saul Raisin (Credit Agricole) gets out of the saddle with 100 metres to go.
• Phil Zajicek (Navigators) wishes the course was 75m shorter.
• Christian Vandevelde (Team CSC) keeps form into the finishing chute.
• Chris Horner (Davitamon-Lotto) flies into the finish.
• David Zabriskie (Team CSC) on his way to the second fastest time of the day.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) plays stealth with the wind.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) takes his unorthodox position into the stage win and leader's jersey.
• Bobby Julich (Team CSC) stays on form at the end.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) does what he can to cut his losses.
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) finishes fourth on the day, over a minute off Landis' blistering pace.
• Bobby Julich (Team CSC) takes questions about his third place for the day.
• Julich's chainrings - apparently, he's made fun for them the same way Floyd does for his TT position.
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) shows off his dimples.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) reminisces about his days in the gold and blue, just two days ago.

Images by Frank Chan/flickr.com/photos/frenquency/

• Fabian Cancellara (CSC) blasts down the road.
• Tony Cruz (Toyota-United Pro) concentrates.
• The effort shows on the face of this TIAA-CREF rider.
• Vladimir Gusev (Discovery) shows off his aero position that earned him the title of Russian champion.
• Danny Pate (TIAA-CREF) pedals out of the saddle an uphill section.
• Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery Channel) looks to return to top form after an injury-plagued 2005.
• Hayden Roulston (Health Net-Maxxis) looks to repeat his good performance in the prologue.
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery) contemplates the road ahead.
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery) is not exactly within spitting distance of the lead!
• Bernhard Kohl (T-Mobile) pushes hard, looking to impress in the Tour of California.
• Saul Raisin (Credit Agricole) is doing well so far, sitting within the top 20 at the start of the stage, but his time trialling pegs him back by almost three minutes.
• The effort is evident on the face of this Credit Agricole rider.
• Jason McCartney (Discovery) grimaces as he pushes hard uphill. He is one of six Discovery riders that finishes in the top 20.
• Josep Jufre Pou (Davitamon-Lotto) doesn't find time trialling quite his cup of tea.
• As good a climber as Gibo Simoni (Saunier-Duval) is, time trialling is really not his thing.
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) manages a top-ten finish.
• Unconventional, but nonetheless effective - Floyd Landis (Phonak) blitzes the field to take a commanding lead in the inaugural Tour of California.

Images by Mitch Friedman/www.mitchophoto.com

• Gilberto Simoni (Saunier Duval-Prodir) waits for a new stem at the Mavic support vehicle.
• Need an Easton set of wheels? Toyota United's trailer with wheels galore.
• Mariano Friedick (Toyota-United Pro) gets a massage.
• Kodak-Sierra Nevada readies for the time trial.
• A Saunier Duval-Prodir rider stretches while the team mechanic adjusts his computer sensor.
• Lars Bak (Team CSC) starts the time trial.
• World TT champion Michael Rogers (T-Mobile) at start of time trial.
• From inside the Navigators car, Sergey Lagutin catches minute rider Scott Zwizanski of Kodak-Sierra Nevada, while the Specialized angel blows kisses.
• Sergey Lagutin breathing hard in the last 3k of the time trial.
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) cames up a little short in time trial, placing fourth.
• The podium - (L-R) Bobby Julich (Team CSC), Floyd Landis (Phonak), Dave Zabriskie (Team CSC).

Images by Doug Herrick/www.mitchophoto.com

• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) rode well, finishing in 10th place.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) on his way to his first win of the year.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) time trials Oak Glen Ave in South San Jose.
• Four jersey wearers - (L to R) George Hincapie, Floyd Landis, Bernard Kohl and Thomas Peterson.

Images by Russ and Nancy Wright/www.abbiorca.com

• Bay Area native Jackson Stewart (Kodak Gallery Sierra Nevada) finished in the top 30.
• Greg Henderson (Health Net Maxxis) being filmed in the TT.
• Mark McCormack (Colavita Sutter Home).
• Fausto Esparza (KBHome Mexican National Team).
• Kilian Patour (Credit Agricole).
• Jelly Belly rider Andrew Bajadali with the rolling California hills as a backdrop.
• Lucas Euser (TIAA CREF).
• Chris Horner (Davitamon-Lotto).
• Stage winner Floyd Landis (Phonak Hearing Systems).
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner).

Images by Beth Seliga/

• Jelly Belly's Alex Candelario sports unique facial hair and aero bar extensions.
• TIAA-CREF director Jonathan Vaughters gets to enjoy yelling out the window at riders now, giving encouragement to track racer Brad Huff.
• Tom Danielson (Discovery Channel) is part of the team's multi-pronged attack at the Tour of California.
• Dave Zabriskie (Team CSC) took second behind Floyd Landis (Phonak). CSC had five riders place in the top 20 today.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) showed off his updated aero position to devastating effect, taking enough time out of overnight leader George Hincapie to claim the leader's jersey.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) placed ninth today, cheered on by a loyal fan.
• Not to be outdone, George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) took fourth on the day and had his own roadside fan.
• Tom Peterson (TIAA-CREF) keeps the best young rider jersey for a second day.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) was pretty happy to take control of the race.
• To the stage victor go the flowers!
• The competition leaders - (L to R) George Hincapie (sprints), Floyd Landis (overall leader), Bernard Kohl (mountains) and Tom Peterson (best young rider).
• Date with an angel - not only does he keep his jersey, but now Tom Peterson has had his photo taken with an angel!
• Craig Lewis (TIAA-CREF) cut the gap to his teammate Peterson in the Best Young Rider competition today.
• Local rabid fans can be found in droves in California!

Stage 2 - February 21: Martinez to San José, 152.7km

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Russ and Nancy Wright/www.abbiorca.com

• Riders head off from the start in Martinez
• The pack winds through Calaveras Road - now that is pretty!
• Ben Jacques-Maynes (Kodakgallery.com) leads Mike Creed (TIAA-CREF) and Mads Kaggestad (Credit Agricole)
• Lars Ytting Bak (CSC) gets some attention from the team car
• Mads Kaggestad (Credit Agricole) heads up the leading trio through Calaveras Road
• Mads Kaggestad rides ahead of Mike Creed and Ben Jacques-Maynes
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) with the Clif Bar Green Sprint jersey, presented by Clif Bar's Jeff Johnson.
• The stage 2 top three (l-r): Josep Jufre Pou, George Hincapie, Chris Horner
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) wins with Davitamon-Lotto's Chris Horner and Josep Jufre Pou right behind
• The shadow of a victor - George Hincapie salutes the crowd after stage 2

Images by Craig Heuerman

• The crowds were loving it on the Upper Happy Valley Rd climb
• Ahh, the angel - again
• Mike Creed does it tough up the Upper Happy Valley Rd climb
• Bernhard Kohl (T-Mobile) checks behind for any sign of the main field
• The Gerolsteiner boys were keeping it tight on the Upper Happy Valley Rd climb
• It was tough work heading up this steep part of the Upper Happy Valley Rd climb

Images by Mitch Friedman/www.mitchophoto.com

• Michael Rogers (T-Mobile) looking pretty cool before the start
• Team CSC signs on for stage 2, looking nice and relaxed
• Gilberto Simoni (Saunier Duval) is welcomed to America by some fans
• Rene Hasselbacher (Gerolsteiner) at the start of Stage 2 - he ended the day 78th, 9:26 back
• Brice Jones rolls out at the start of Stage 2 with Bobby Julich
• The pack chasing on Calaveras Road
• Hincapie goes for it at the end of Stage 2
• Some yawns in the pack as they roll out of Martinez
• He's feeling it, man... a Cannondale canine bike racing fan enjoys an unobstructed view
• Ben Jaques-Maynes and Mads Kaggestad take Clif Bar sprint #2 in Castro Valley
• The pack at the Clif Bar Sprint #2 in Castro Valley

Images by Seng Chen

• The early break of Ben Jaques-Mayne, Mike Creed and Mads Kaggestad passes over a climb outside of Moraga.
• Kaggestad takes the front in the waning stages of a break with Jaques-Maynes and Mike Creed
• Share the road! The peloton bunches up before the Sierra Road Climb.
• Levi Leipheimer passes off extra clothing before the last climb.
• Paolo Salvodelli is watched by the Gerolsteiner riders, particularly Levi Leipheimer.
• George Hincapie powers to the line and takes a clear victory in San Jose.
• The peloton keeping a conservative tempo about four minutes behind the break of Creed, Jaques-Maynes and Kaggestad.
• A view of the Upper San Leandro Reservoir just past Moraga on today's route.

Images by Frank Chan/flickr.com/photos/frenquency/

• Mike Creed (TIAA-CREF) tries to stay away from the chase group on Sierra Road.
• The chase group hot on the heels of Mike Creed, containing all the usual suspects.
• The 10-strong chase group contains Tom Danielson, George Hincapie (Discovery), Bernard Kohl (T-Mobile), Floyd Landis (Phonak, obscured), Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner, obscured), Dave Zabriskie (CSC), among others.
• A second chase group contains the rest of the top of GC, Gibo Simoni (Saunier-Duval), Chris Horner (Davitamon-Lotto), Bobby Julich (CSC), Jason McCartney (Discovery)
• Fast Freddie (Davitamon-Lotto) bides his time to fight for another big gear kind of day.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) Floyd Landis (Phonak) and Bernhard Kohl (T-Mobile) try to stay off the front on the way down from Sierra Road
• This Phonak rider tries for another sprint finish
• The podium featuring (l-r): Josef Pou (3rd, Davitamon-Lotto), George Hincapie (1st, Discovery) and Chris Horner (2nd, Davitamon-Lotto)
• Watch out or I'm going to whoop your butt!
• Mike Creed (TIAA-CREF) seems satisfied with his Most Aggressive Rider jersey.
• Those 20-somethings always seem to have problems with their clothes...the emcee jibes as Thomas Peterson (TIAA-CREF) was presented with the Best Young Rider jersey.
• Big George is all smiles after winning both the green and the golden jersey.

Images by Mark Zalewski/Cyclingnews.com

• Levi Leipheimer (c) has a laugh with Dave Zabriskie (l) and Bobby Julich (r)
• Tim Johnson (Health Net) looks relaxed
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) is followed by teammate Tom Danielson
• Danny Pate (TIAA-CREF) is a smiling litte racer
• A photo opportunity at every rolling hill
• The peloton make their way to San José
• One of the TIAA-CREF crew who doesn't have time to enjoy the awesome view
• The number of fans so far during the Tour of California indicates the massive support for this event

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• The bunch gets underway early on.
• The group bunches up on the climb.
• Gerolsteiner leads the peloton through the rolly hills.
• Today's climb shattered the bunch.
• Today's course wound through the lush green hills north of San Jose.
• Gerolsteiner kept the tempo high throughout the day.
• Snaking our way through switchbacks.
• Gerolsteiner still on the front.
• Saunier Duval-Prodir comes to the front.
• The break that almost stayed away.
• Thanks to Castro Valley Cyclery (CVC) for getting us up in the air today!

Images by Dan Spisak

• Political commentary AND a road race.
• The main break of the day: Creed, Jacques-Maynes, Kaggestad.
• Kaggestad leads the break.
• Local hero Ben Jacques-Maynes.
• Mike Creed, the rider who initiated the break, follows.
• The peloton follows over three minutes later, controlled by Gerolsteiner.
• Frank Hoy and Sven Krauss working for Leipheimer.
• The pack follows.
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon Lotto) enjoying the sunshine.
• Three 7s: Alexandre Moos, Mariano Friedick, Jackson Stewart.
• Jonathan McCarty and Martin Elminger - different colors, same team.
• Ekimov and Davidenko back in the bunch.
• The break (Creed, Jacques-Maynes, Kaggestad) still out front. The lead was as great as 6’-10”.
• Creed and Jacques-Maynes looking very determined...
• …followed by Kaggestad.
• The bunch still controlled by Gerolsteiner near the Sunol feed zone.
• George Hincapie biding his time in the bunch.
• Time to fuel up!
• The break still has a good lead near the beginning of the Sierra Grade climb.
• Gerolsteiner still controls the peloton.
• Watch out for that curb!
• The break was dissolved and the peloton exploded on Sierra Grade. Landis charges back into Milpitas with a 15 second lead.
• Bobby Julich was dropped on Sierra Grade but is in pursuit of Landis.

Stage 1 - February 20: Sausalito to Santa Rosa, 129.1km

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Juan José Haedo (Toyota-United Pro) takes the win in the first victory for his new team
• Juan José Haedo (Toyota-United Pro) takes the win in the first victory for his new team

Images by Mitch Friedman/www.mitchophoto.com

• A couple of Gerolsteiner boys have a chat during stage 1
• The final descent took riders down onto the flat final kilometres of the stage
• Lining it up on the streets of Santa Rosa for the sprint
• The Davitamon-Lotto train wind it up for Fast Freddie in the sprint
• Juan Jose Haedo wins stage 1 in Santa Rosa, taking Toyota-United Pro's first victory
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) started and finised the day in gold
• The stage 1 podium (l-r): Stuart O'Grady, JJ Haedo and Olaf Pollack
• In gold on home turf... Levi Leipheimer retains the lead in the Tour of California

Images by Mark Zalewski/Cyclingnews.com

• Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) is too focused to notice the San Francisco skyline across the bay.
• Temperatures were changing a lot today.
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) zips up in the cooler temperatures.
• Aaron Olson (Suanier Duval-Prodir) rides to the sign-in.
• Race leader Levi Leipheimer rides with Tom Danielson (Discovery Channel) and Mike Sayers (Health Net-Maxxis) to the start.
• Gerolsteiner leads the field around the bend off the first climb towards the Pacific coast.
• Gerolsteiner continues to lead up the small rolling climbs.
• The beautiful California hills provide a nice backdrop for the race.
• Jean Marc Marino (Credit Agricole) initiated the main break of the day, and was quickly joined by Jackson Stewart (Kodakgallery.Com-Sierra Nevada).
• Jackson Stewart (Kodakgallery.Com-Sierra Nevada) begins the second climb of the day.

Images by David Wood

• A brisk morning in Sausalito for former rider turned commentator Paul Sherwen.
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery Channel) signs in.
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) is rugged up to sign in
• Can you sign here please, Mr Hincapie
• That's it...
• Hincapie's teammate Viatcheslav Ekimov signs in, but we don't get to see the mullet!
• Saul Raisin (Credit Agricole) signs in
• Some of the Credit Agricole crew sign in
• Floyd Landis being interviewed after signing in.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) getting treated like the race leader.
• Hey, remember the time...? A couple of Saunier Duval riders share a joke at the sign-in.
• There were plenty of fans waiting for the next big name to sign-in.
• The sign-in area was busy before the start, as usual.
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) leaving the sign-in area.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) looking relaxed before the start
• Off they go! Riders begin the race to Santa Rosa.
• A typical sight in Sausalito - only that this is the big time

Images by Beth Seliga/

• The Specialized angel reappeared today for Stage 1. Maybe she's been blessing the Gerolsteiner bikes?
• Taylor Tolleson's (TIAA-CREF) family came out to cheer him on - he's a local boy
• It's always important to stake out a good viewing spot at the start/finish lines. It's also important to make your signs big enough for riders to see them.
• Fans have been lining up in droves for the Tour of California. Here they watch the action on the Jumbotron.
• You won't find better scenery at a race - not that the racers get to enjoy it!
• Packed to the rafters! US bike racing fans are really getting behind the Tour of California. When's the last time you saw fans stacked this deep outside of a grand tour?
• Bobby Julich (CSC) looks composed behind Swiss Champ Martin Elmiger (Phonak) who took 8th today.
• Sometimes you just need Dad's help to get a good view of the podium presentations.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) got to keep the leader's jersey as he rode into his home town Santa Rosa.

Images by Seng Chen

• Gerolsteiner controls the tempo early on as the race enters the Point Reyes National Seashore.
• Gerolsteiner protects their leader.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) makes his way to the front in the final laps.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) returns home to Santa Rosa in the leader's jersey.
• Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) sticks close to Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) near race end.
• Fans risk life and limb for a good view.
• Juan José Haedo celebrates a clean sprint victory.
• Olaf Pollack and Stuart O'Grady take second and third as GeorgeHincapie looks on.
• Ekimov stretches his back after the first day of real riding.
• Levi takes questions... News at 11.
• O'Grady, Haedo and Pollack share the podium.
• Jackson Stewart (Kodakgallery.com-Sierra Nevada) wears the most aggresive jersey after stage 1
• Taylor Tolleson (TIAA-CREF) is the best young rider after stage 1
• JJ Haedo (Toyota-United Pro) wears teh points jersey after his stage win
• King of the Mountain Bernhard Kohl with the Santa Rosa mayor
• Levi Leipheimer is awarded the leader's jersey in his home town of Santa Rosa.
• Levi Leipheimer takes it all in.
• This one's for you, man! A fan holds up encouragement for Levi during the awards ceremony.
• Leipheimer waves good bye for the day.

Prologue - February 19: San Francisco ITT, 3.1km

For a thumbnail gallery of these images, click here

Images by Jonathan Devich/epicimages.us

• Nathan O'Neill (Health Net) fights his way to the top after having a crash into the barriers.
• Janez Brajkovic (Discovery) leads the way early on.
• Thomas Peterson (TIAA-CREF) focuses on the top.
• Jens Voigt (CSC) rode conservatively today to 78th place.
• Tom Danielson (Discovery) almost made it into the top 10 today coming in 12" back.
• Tom Danielson (Discovery) passes Olivier Kaisen (Davitamon-Lotto) right at the line.
• Michael Barry (Discovery) gives it his all on the last climb.
• Chris Horner (Davitamon-Lotto) had a decent ride at 21" back.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) came in fast but still finished 4th.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) had a great ride today.
• Justin England (Toyota-United Pro) gets cheered by the crowd.
• Frank Hoj (Gerolsteiner) hammers into the finish.
• Greg Henderson (Health Net) stays aero into the finish.
• Freddie Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) digs deep.
• Mike Creed (TIAA-CREF) fights his way up the last climb.
• Gord Fraser (Health Net) had a good first ride of the season coming in only 16" back.
• Paolo Savoldelli (Discovery) rounds out the top 10.
• David Zabriskie (CSC) came in 9" back even after dropping his chain.
• George Hincapie (Discovery) finished off the top 3.
• Mick Rogers (T-Mobile) World TT Champion.
• Bobby Julich (CSC) gets congratulated by California Governor Arnold Schwarzenager.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) takes the first leader's jersey.

Images by Russ and Nancy Wright/www.abbiorca.com

• Freddy Rodriguez
• Bobby Julich
• Ben Jacques-Maynes
• Dave Zabriskie
• Winner Levi Leipheimer
• A United Pro rider having trouble with his bike
• Bobby Julich
• George Hincapie
• Saul Raisin
• Winner Levi Leipheimer

Images by Mark Zalewski/Cyclingnews.com

• Sebastian Lang (Gerolsteiner) on the road early in the event
• Scott Moninger (Health Net pb Maxxis) posted a good early time
• Fabian Cancellara (CSC) had the fastest time posted for the majority of the day
• Jens Voigt (CSC) starting out
• Tom Danielson (Discovery) decided to run on a regular road bike for the prologue
• Aaron Olsen (Prodir-Saunier Duval) starts his first race on US soil with his new team.
• Stuart O'Grady (CSC) decides to go with a full TT kit
• Viktor Rapinski (Colavita Olive Oil-Sutter Home Wines Cycling Team) starts his first race back in America
• Christian Vandevelde (Team CSC) was another CSC rider in the top 25
• Michael Creed (TIAA Cref) tries to match his last performance in San Francisco
• Robert Hunter (Phonak) posted a very good to time place 13th
• Chris Horner (Davitamon Lotto) on the starting block
• Paolo Salvodelli (Discovery) now sits tenth on GC after the prologue
• Mads Kaggestad (Credit Agricole) concentrates on his start
• Zach Grabowski (Colavita Olive Oil-Sutter Home Wines Cycling Team) took home the "best young rider" jersey
• David Kopp (Gerolsteiner) just off the blocks
• Charles Dionne (Prodir-Saunier Duval) is a frequent winner in San Francisco
• Frantisek Rabon (T-Mobile Team) was one of the last starters
• Ben Jacques-Maynes (Kodakgallery.Com-Sierra Nevada Pro Cycling) posts the fastest time for his team
• Floyd Landis (Phonak Hearing Systems) posts a good time to put him in fourth place
• National TT Champion Chris Baldwin (Toyota-United Pro) placed 23rd in the stage
• Alex Candelario (Jelly Belly) sporting the mountain man look
• Hayden Roulston (Health Net pb Maxxis) shows his form coming from the southern hemisphere to place 8th
• David Zabriskie (Team CSC) rounds out the top five
• Cadel Evans (Davitamon-Lotto) comes in for 12th place
• George Hincapie (USA) Discovery Channel Pro Cycling Team sped home to take third place by six seconds
• Danny Pate (Team TIAA-CREF) was one of the last to start today
• Todd Herriot (Colavita Olive Oil-Sutter Home Wines Cycling Team) finished mid field
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) powers off the start line for a winning ride
• Gilberto Simoni (Saunier Duval-Prodir) was the penultimate starter
• Michael Rogers (T-Mobile Team) in the rainbow stripes of TT World Champion
• Michael Rogers (T-Mobile Team) finishes in 32nd place

Images by Mitch Friedman/www.mitchophoto.com

• Mike Friedman gets ready to ride
• Jackson Stewart readies him self to be the first rider out on the course
• Jackson Stewart out on the road for the Tour of Calif
• Ekimov goes down the road
• Track rider Mike Friedman learns fast and is on the road as well as going to track worlds
• Tony Cruz shows his new team colors
• Chris Horner in his new team colors
• Michael Rogers in new team colors as well as the world champs jersey
• A very young Devil
• And a representative of the other side.
• Levi Leipheimer on his way to taking the Prologue
• Arnold Schwarzenegger - the Governor of California and race leader Levi Leipheimer

Images by Frank Chan/flickr.com/photos/frenquency/

• Jens Voigt and Stuart O´Grady warm up at the CSC team bus
• Dave Zabriskie gives an interview
• Dave Zabriskie concentrates on his warmup
• Stuart O´Grady works up a sweat and concentrates
• Jens Voigt´s popularity reaches all the way from Berlin to San Francisco
• A Discovery rider speeds along the Embarcadero
• Mike Creed - new team, same grittiness
• Bobby Julich finishes well, holding onto the best time until Levi unseats him near the very end
• Chris Horner in his new colors
• Giro winner Savoldelli flies up the climb for a top 10 finish
• Floyd Landis has a good ride, placing 4th
• Dave Zabriskie provides another strong finish for CSC
• Cadel Evans dashes through the last 50m to the finish
• Big George does a Jordan impersonation on his way to placing 3rd.
• Saul Raisin looks to impress at the Tour of California
• Levi Leipheimer blasts through the last section to place a good 4 seconds ahead of everybody
• Levi Leipheimer basks in the applause at the quick post-race interview.

Images by Beth Seliga/

• Who knew Specialized was making Angels now?
• Bobby Julich (CSC) looks focused on the task at hand. Julich finished less than 5 seconds behind Leipheimer.
• Former U-23 World TT Champ Danny Pate (TIAA-CREF) fights his way up the hill.
• Dave Zabriskie (CSC) proved again he doesn't mind time trials with hills in them.
• Bike races attract fans in all sizes, shapes, and breeds!
• Phonak's team leader Floyd Landis showed he has some spring form with a 4th place on the day.
• Freddie Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) throws down for his local fans.
• Mike Friedman (TIAA-CREF) obliges a fan with an autograph before the start.
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) made the podium with a strong 3rd place.
• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) makes the final push for the line.
• Russian time trial champ Vladimir Gusev (Discovery Channel) powers up the finishing climb.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) didn't disasppoint in his local race, claiming the stage and leader's jersey.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) is clearly happy to don the first ever leader's jersey.
• Taylor Tolleson (TIAA-CREF) shows the strain of effort on his face.

Images by David Wood/David Wood

• George Hincapie (Discovery Channel) puts in the big ones near the end of his ride
• Saul Raisin (Credit Agricole) finshed the 3.1km in 41st position
• Stage winner Levi Leipheimer had a great ride today
• Gilberto Simoni (Saunier Duval) is one of the big names riding the Tour of California

Images by Michael David Murphy/www.whileseated.org

• Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery Channel) finished lower down the order today

Images by Seng Chen

• Viatcheslav Ekimov (Discovery Channel) begins his run
• Jens Voigt (CSC) puts in an effort just after the start
• Fred Rodriguez (Davitamon-Lotto) was fast today, but not fast enough for the win
• Fabian Wegmann (Gerolsteiner) was back after his San Fran GP win last year
• Martin Gilbert (Kodakgallery.com) gives it some up the hill
• Robert Hunter (Phonak) looks like he's in a world of pain
• Gord Fraser (Health Net) doesn't give much away
• Bobby Julich (CSC) looks comfortable before the hill
• A relaxed Bobby Julich (CSC) about to hit the hill
• Paolo Salvodelli (Discovery Channel) doing it tough
• Paolo Salvodelli (Discovery Channel) heads up the hill
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) was in control
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) looks strong and must be one of the overall favourites
• David Zabriskie (CSC) was fast as usual
• David Zabriskie (CSC) gets the air in
• The tongue makes you go faster according to George Hincapie (Discovery Channel)
• George Hncapie (Discovery Channel) looked in good shape
• Danny Pate (TIAA-CREF) concentrates hard
• Todd Herriot (Colavita-Sutter Home) grimaces with the effort
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) was on the rivet heading up the hill
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) gives it his all
• Gilberto Simoni (Saunier-Duval) was well down the rankings
• Michael Rogers (T-Mobile) gets out of the saddle
• Michael Rogers (T-Mobile) looking good in world champ stripes
• Simoni makes an incognito exit from the top of Coit Tower.
• The Specialized angel gets caught on earthly tenting.

Images by Rob O'Dea/www.BaldZebra.com

• Bobby Julich scouts the course before the action starts.
• Jackson Stewart (Kodakgallery.com-Sierra Nevada) gets things started.
• Eki's face says it all... this is a tough course!
• Josep Jufre Pou (Davitamon-Lotto) makes his way up the hill.
• Tom Danielson rides strong for Discovery.
• Kodakgallery.com-Sierra Nevada sport hot new Merckx bikes in '06
• Floyd's teammates set some strong early times.
• Scott Zwizanski makes it look easy.
• Ivan Dominguez (Toyota-United Pro) finds himself going the wrong way to fix a dropped chain.
• Fast Freddie Rodriguez earns his title.
• Mike Creed (TIAA-CREF) fresh off his fall domination of these same hills.
• How can a man in pink look so fierce?
• Bobby Julich looks strong heading onto Lombard St.
• A picture of concentration.
• Chris Horner (Davitamon-Lotto) sports his new colours.
• Credit Agricole made a strong showing in San Fran.
• Local racer Ben Jacques-Maynes puts his stamp on the prologue.
• Floyd Landis (Phonak) clearly in strong form early
• Berkeley's own Dave Zabriskie made it look easy
• Cadel Evans riding well with two healthy collarbones
• Big George Hincapie hauls himself up Stockton Street.
• Levi Leipheimer (Gerolsteiner) on his way to an impressive win - heading home Monday wearing gold.
• A rare yellow-bellied Simoni spotted flying south in the hills of San Francisco.
• Michael Rogers showing his stripes in San Francisco
• The best eyes in cycling photography - Rob O'Dea and Graham Watson

Images by Mike Jacoubowsky

• Dominique Perras looks at his watch to check his time as there was no visible clock at the finish. This was a point of frustration to many riders as they crossed the line.
• Tom Danielson passing his minuteman Olivier Kaisen, just before the line.
• Levi Leipheimer pumps his fist as he crosses the line with a commanding lead.
• George Hincapie congratulates Leipheimer on his win.
• No, you haven't died and gone to heaven...