PRE-TOUR PREPARATION IS AN ART AND A SCIENCE

So it's that time of year again. The Dauphiné is done, the work is in the legs, and it's the final push before the Tour. For me, it's always a tricky period to get right. Having ridden the Tour four times already, I've had all sorts of different buildups.

- FRED WRIGHT

This year, I'd like to think I've gone for the optimal choice; well, that's what I'm telling myself at least. Unfortunately, I didn't race the Nationals yesterday, the same as last year, which always feels a bit of a shame.

That said, it felt like the right choice. Last year, I tried a bit too hard to push on from the Dauphiné at altitude - not a great idea.