We may not be fast, but we are determined. The biggest ride of our lives by far! Wow! Yesterday, Martin and I rode La Marmotte. 175 kilometres (108 miles) and 5,000 metres vertical ascent (16,400 feet).

My legs needed a day off, but the sirens of the Dauphiné were calling my name. On a last second whim, I jumped in the car to the base of Col du Granier - the first climb in today's race.

The route for the 2008 Paris-Nice was unveiled today. Stage 4 will climb Mont Ventoux on the lessor known Malaucene side - but will only go as far as Mont Serein Ski Station.