McEwen wins first Tour stage

Updated 17.08 Sun Jul 08 2007
Keywords: David Millar, Robbie McEwen, Tour de France, cycling, sport

Australia's Robbie McEwen won the first stage of the Tour de France between London and Canterbury.

The 35-year-old seemed to be out of contention when he stopped for repairs after a crash near the end of the 126-mile stage.

"I am surprised because I did not feel well all day" - Robbie McEwen

But McEwen produced a blistering sprint to take the spoils from Norway's Thor Hushovd and Tom Boonen of Belgium.

Switzerland's Fabian Cancellara retained the race leader's yellow jersey although Britain's David Millar moved up to third overall.

McEwen said: "I am surprised because I did not feel well all day, especially after I crashed.

"At first I thought I had broken my wrist. It's incredible."

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