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The peloton is informed of the gap to an early break as some riders take a nature break.
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photo Copyright © 2011 Fotoreporter Sirotti/cyclingfans.com

More photos below

Stage 1:  Houdan to Houdan, 154.5km
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photo Copyright © 2011 Fotoreporter Sirotti/cyclingfans.com

Jeremy Roy (FDJ), Jens Voigt (Leopard Trek) and Thomas De Gendt (Vacansoleil-DCM) formed the decisive breakaway of the day.
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photo Copyright © 2011 Fotoreporter Sirotti/cyclingfans.com

De Gendt held off the peloton to take the win with Roy second and Haussler (Garmin) best from the peloton in third.
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Thomas De Gendt raises his arms in victory
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De Gendt on the podium
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De Gendt in yellow and first race leader
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photo Copyright © 2011 Fotoreporter Sirotti/cyclingfans.com