The start in what is regarded as Spain's party city will be unusual to say the least. Bikes and boats aren't readily associated but they will be combined at the start, where the peloton will roll away from a Spanish aircraft carrier. Three cat 3 climbs on the sinuous roads that run through the beautiful Grazalema national park, with its cork trees and stunning vistas, will encourage the breakaway group to believe this might be a day when they stay clear all the way into the finish.
The finale in Arcos de la Frontera rises sharply, which won't suit the sprinters. It's the kind of finish where Alejandro Valverde's finishing punch may give him an edge over his rivals as he eyes a second Vuelta crown.
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Tour of the Gila: Lauren Stephens and Eric Brunner set the GC markers on stage 1 with Tyrone time trial victories
Defending women's champion Stephens dominates ITT with one minute margin over 17-year-old runner-up Sidney Swierenga -
'I suffered because of the cold' - Miserable weather affects Thibau Nys' debut performance at Flèche Wallonne
'I was too hot and then too cold again. That really affected my legs, very early in the final' Lidl-Trek rider finishes 8th despite discomfort in rain-soaked Huy -
'I blew up a little bit' - Elisa Longo Borghini lands podium at Flèche Wallonne and gains confidence for Liège-Bastogne-Liège
Italian Champion holds off Niewiadoma-Phinney for third place on Mur de Huy final ascent to finish -
Ruth Edwards wins first Pan American Championship title at individual time trial
Emily Ehrlich adds silver in ITT for USA to pair of gold medals from Track Pan Ams
