PARIS, CHAMPS-ÉLYSÉE | Ce 109e The Tour de France, as memorable as it is historic for our Quebecers, ended somewhat abruptly on Sunday when there were no guests at the post-race party.
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Indeed, while the four Canadians were preparing to celebrate together on the most beautiful avenue in the world, two of them were unable to start the 21st and final stage.
To the unequaled joy of Houle’s triumph was added the pain of losing his two compatriots at the worst possible moment.
Michael Woods was declared positive for COVID and was unable to participate in the 115 kilometer stage which linked Paris La Défense Arena to the Champs-Élysées. Guillaume Boivin was not there either.
Both had raced in Saturday’s time trial even though Woods was not at the top of his game.
For his part, from the announcement of his non-selection until his recall and his forced withdrawal on Sunday, Boivin will have experienced roller coaster emotions.
A privilege
“You’re not in Paris until you’re there. It makes you realize even more how lucky we are to finish the Tour. It’s not easy, there are lots of obstacles. That’s a shame. I would have liked them to be with us and that spoils the party a bit, ”explained Hugo Houle, proud of this 4e participation that will change his career.
Photo by Jean-Francois Racine
Boivin was not feeling well on Sunday and further tests will be needed. In his case, members of his family had to be present on arrival. The two teammates of the Israel-Premier Tech team did not show up for the party.
This announcement is heartbreaking for the two cyclists who were unable to celebrate three weeks of intense effort.
It was also another loss for the Israel-Premier Tech team, reduced to just three riders. Fortunately, the Tour is over.
Photo by Jean-Francois Racine
Chris Froome and Simon Clarke left the race for the same reason, while Denmark’s Jakob Fuglsang retired with an injury. So there remained Hugo Houle, Guy Niv and Krists Neilands.
In the absence of his two friends, Houle celebrated with Antoine Duchesne, devoted lieutenant of Groupama-FDJ.
On the cycling planet, Quebec and Canada have never caused so much talk as this year.
“I am relieved and tired of these COVID stories. With Antoine, we crossed the line together quietly. It’s a beautiful moment. Antoine was very strong. He did a great Tour and I’m happy for him. »
Photo by Jean-Francois Racine
Houle and his companion
Several cases
Michael Woods, 35, was 36e in the general classification, 2 h 20 min 50 s from the yellow jersey Jonas Vingegaard (Jumbo-Visma). Boivin, for his part, was 119e.
Woods had placed 3e from 16e stage in Foix behind his teammate Hugo Houle and the Frenchman Valentin Madouas. Woods is the 17e runner who had to leave the race because of the coronavirus. After several embraces on the Champs, the runners were able to see relatives and friends near their respective coaches. Private receptions were later scheduled for the start of the night.
