As with everything Ashley and Jered when it comes to traveling, this adventure started about four hours late, resulted in much fast driving, and ended with an arrival just moments ahead of the race. Our original intention had been to catch the Stage 8 start, then drive down to Sion to see the finish on Crans Montana. We compromised with just seeing the race on the final climb to Crans Montana.

It had to be. At some point, Fabian Cancellara had to win the Tour de Suisse. The only question was when. Well, of course, we have an answer. The kindly organizers gave Cancellara a Christmas present in June this year with two time trials and only a moderate voyage through the mountains of possibilities in Switzerland's Alps. Indeed, Cancellara made the most of his chance and obliterated his opposition.

I have to admit, at this point, I'm spoiled. I don't have to go anywhere to see the big races anymore, they just seem to come to me. Yesterday was no different, as Stage 5 of the Tour de Suisse finished about 60k from my doorstep in the Upper Inn Valley town of Serfaus, Austria. The climb was classic Tirolean fun, and the result - not too surprising - a small group of the strongest decided the day amongst themselves.