May 18, 2007 — The Tour l’Aude begins today in France and runs from May 18-27. Arguably the most difficult women’s stage race the 23rd annual event is a 10-day, 902 kilometre race. The USA’s Amber Neben will defend her title and attempt the hat-trick, hoping for her third consecutive win.

Canada’s Team expresscopy.com debuts at their first European event with Canadians Joelle Numainville, Anne Samplonius, Amanda Shaw and Erinne Willock on the start line with other team members, Meshy Holt (NZL) and Jessica Phillips (USA).

Tour de l’Aude 2007 Stages

Team Reception — Thursday, May 17 – Carcassonne, Hôtel du Département

Prologue – May 18: Gruissan – Gruissan (ITT), 3.9 km

Stage 1 — Saturday, May 19: Port La Nouvelle – Port La Nouvelle, 115.5 km

Stage 2 – May 20: Argeles Sur Mer (TTT), 41.6 km

Stage 3 РMay 21: Lezignan Corbi̬res РLezignan Corbi̬res , 122 km

Stage 4 – May 22: Castelnaudary – Castelnaudary, 107 km

Stage 5 – May 23: Osseja – Osseja, 110 km

Stage 6 – May 24: Rieux Minervois – Rieux Minervois, 113 km

Stage 7 – May 25: Arques – Rennes Les Bains, 104 km

Stage 8a – May 26: Quillan – Axat, 55 km

Stage 8b – May 26: Axat – Quillan, 62 km

Stage 9 – May 27: Limoux – Limoux, 68 km